FIORA: DARKNESS BEFORE DAWN

VOL 1 - Chapter 12 - Save Your Tears

In the realm of dreams, Max found himself transported to an idyllic landscape, a world untouched by the darkness that plagued his waking life. A verdant sea of grass stretched before him, its emerald blades swaying gently in a tender breeze that whispered through the air. Above, the sky was a brilliant canvas of azure, the heavens painted with delicate wisps of white clouds that danced in the wind.

The tranquility of the scene enveloped Max, cradling him in a sense of peace and contentment that seemed to seep into the very core of his being. In this dream world, the weight of his injuries had vanished, replaced by a sensation of boundless energy that coursed through his veins like liquid fire. The pain and suffering that had plagued him for so long seemed to evaporate, leaving only the exhilarating freedom of a healed body and limitless possibilities.

With an exuberant cry, Max raced through the emerald expanse, his legs pumping with newfound strength as he reveled in the sheer joy of movement. Each stride felt as light as air, his muscles responding with a grace and precision that seemed almost otherworldly. The soft rustle of the grass beneath his feet was like a symphony, a celebration of life that echoed through the dream world with every step he took.

As he sprinted through the field, a kaleidoscope of butterflies took flight, their wings a riot of colors that shimmered in the sunlight like precious gems. They danced around him, their delicate bodies weaving intricate patterns in the air as they accompanied him on his journey through the dreamscape. The sight was breathtaking, a living tapestry of beauty that filled his heart with wonder and delight.

In this dreamscape, Max felt a sense of serenity that had long eluded him in the waking world. Here, the burdens of reality seemed to melt away, allowing him to experience the simple, unadulterated joy of existence. For a time, he was free to frolic through the boundless field, unfettered by the pain and heartache that plagued his waking life. The dream was a sanctuary, a haven of tranquility that allowed him to temporarily escape the darkness that threatened to consume his world.

And yet, even in the midst of this blissful reprieve, a part of Max's heart ached with the knowledge that this dream could not last forever. Soon, he would awaken to a world of suffering and loss, forced to confront the harsh realities that awaited him beyond the veil of sleep. But for now, he chose to bask in the fleeting beauty of the dreamscape, savoring the precious moments of respite that it offered. For in this ephemeral haven, he found solace, strength, and the will to continue fighting for those he loved.

In the midst of the verdant field, Max's ears caught the lilting melody of a familiar voice. It floated toward him like a gentle breeze, its sweet timbre awakening a torrent of memories that threatened to engulf him in a tide of emotion. The voice belonged to none other than Laussinna, his beloved mother. Her radiant figure stood just a few yards away, her ethereal presence suffused with warmth and love.

Beside her, a resplendent vision of Matterinna emerged, her dragon form restored to its original, endearing state. Gone were the grotesque visage and tattered wings of her zombified form, replaced by the elegant and serene creature that had once been a cherished member of their family. Her scales shimmered with a vibrant iridescence, reflecting the sunlight in a dazzling display of beauty and grace.

Max's heart swelled with joy and longing as he beheld the two figures that had meant so much to him in his life. Tears of happiness welled up in his eyes as he raced toward them, his voice breaking with emotion as he called out their names.

"Mother! Matterinna!" he cried, his words laden with the weight of love and loss that had weighed on his soul for so long.

As Max drew nearer, the dream world around them seemed to respond to the powerful bond shared by the trio. The lush grass beneath their feet began to sparkle, as if infused with the essence of the stars themselves. The sky above transformed into a breathtaking tapestry of swirling colors, as though the heavens themselves were celebrating the reunion of these kindred spirits.