Legends Of AETHERIA: The Tale of Drayden

Chapter 6: Allies in the Light

Kael's heart pounded as he faced the massive Luminaris Behemoth. The creature, glowing with an eerie light, moved with a speed and grace that belied its size. He tightened his grip on his great sword, an upgraded version of his father's claymore, and steeled himself for the attack. But deep down, he knew he was out of his depth.

"Elyndra!" Kael shouted, trying to keep his voice steady. Elyndra, the Aelorian patrol who had guided him this far, responded with a nod but kept her eyes on the beast.

The Behemoth roared, the sound reverberating through the forest. It lunged at Kael, its massive claws gleaming in the light. Kael swung his sword, but the creature was too fast. He stumbled, losing his balance, and the beast's claws were nearly upon him when Elyndra darted forward, pushing him out of the way.

"Elyndra, no!" Kael yelled as she took the blow meant for him. Elyndra cried out in pain, then fell to the ground, unconscious.

Kael's mind raced. He couldn't defeat the Behemoth alone, not with Elyndra out of commission. Desperation clawed at him, and he backed away, trying to think of a plan. His inexperience and fear left him paralyzed. The beast turned its attention back to him, its eyes glowing with a predatory light.

"Think, Kael, think!" he muttered to himself, but his mind was blank.

Just as the Behemoth was about to strike, a group of adventurers burst onto the scene, weapons drawn. They moved with practiced precision, surrounding the creature and launching a coordinated attack.

"Hang on, kid! We've got this!" one of them shouted.

Kael watched in awe as the party of six fought the Behemoth with skill and teamwork. A tall man with a massive sword, reminiscent of his own, cleaved through the creature's defenses. A robed figure chanted spells, sending waves of energy at the beast. Another, armed with a bow, fired arrows with pinpoint accuracy. Two others flanked the creature, striking from the sides, while a heavily armored warrior stood guard, protecting Kael and Elyndra.

The Luminaris Behemoth roared in fury and pain, unable to withstand the coordinated assault. It lashed out wildly, but the adventurers were relentless. Finally, with a bellow of rage, the creature turned and fled into the forest, disappearing into the shadows.

Kael sank to his knees, exhausted and relieved. The adventurers approached him, their faces showing concern and curiosity.

"Are you alright?" asked the man with the massive sword. "Name's Alaric. This is Thalos, Miri, Torin, Jax, and Eris. We're the Radiant Vanguard, a party from the capital."

Kael nodded, still catching his breath. "I'm Kael. Thank you for saving us. Elyndra, she... she took a hit for me."

Elyndra stirred, slowly regaining consciousness. She looked up at the group and recognition dawned in her eyes. "The Radiant Vanguard... I should have known it was you."

Alaric smiled. "We were on patrol and heard the commotion. Good thing we arrived in time."

Kael helped Elyndra to her feet, grateful for the intervention. "I don't know how to thank you."

Miri, the robed spellcaster, stepped forward. "No need for thanks. We're just glad we could help. What brings you two out here?"

Elyndra glanced at Kael before answering. "Kael is on a journey to find his sister, who was taken by dark sorcerers. I was guiding him to the capital when we encountered the Behemoth."

Thalos, the archer, nodded thoughtfully. "The capital is still a few days' journey from here. It's dangerous to travel alone, especially with creatures like that around."

Torin, the armored warrior, clapped a hand on Kael's shoulder. "Stick with us. We'll get you to the capital safely."

Kael felt a surge of hope. With the Radiant Vanguard's help, his chances of finding his sister seemed a little brighter. "Thank you. I don't know what I would have done without you."