Dragons breath

Chapter eight

Dawn broke over the horizon, casting long shadows through the dense forest. The air was crisp, tinged with the scent of pine and damp earth, and the distant call of birds filled the silence between them. Draven was recovering but still weak, and Kael could sense the weight of exhaustion in his every step. Despite this, they pressed on, led by the mysterious woman, Seraphis.

Seraphis moved with swift confidence through the underbrush, her silver hair catching the light as it danced over her shoulders. Kael watched her carefully, still wary of the power she possessed. He had to trust her for now, but that didn't mean he was comfortable with the idea of following someone whose motives remained unclear.

Draven's wings were tucked tightly against his back, the tension in his body evident as they walked deeper into the forest. His tail flicked occasionally, a sign of his unease.

"This Eldergrove," Draven muttered, keeping his voice low as they followed Seraphis through the thickening woods. "It's not just a place, Kael. The magic there is old. Ancient. I can feel it."

Kael looked up at him, his expression serious. "Will it be dangerous?"

Draven didn't answer immediately, his gaze focused ahead. "It's powerful. If Seraphis is being honest, then yes, it could be dangerous. But the bigger question is what she truly wants."

Kael frowned but kept quiet. He had his own suspicions, but right now, they needed Seraphis's help. He just hoped it wouldn't come at a price they couldn't afford.

The forest grew denser, the trees taller and more gnarled as they ventured further in. The air had changed, too, becoming thick with a kind of electric energy that buzzed faintly, just on the edge of perception. It reminded Kael of the magic they had encountered in the cavern, but this felt even older, more alive.

Finally, they reached a clearing. In the centre stood a massive tree, larger than anything Kael had ever seen, its roots twisting and sprawling across the ground like great serpents. The bark shimmered faintly, pulsing with a soft, golden light. The tree seemed to breathe with magic, and Kael could feel the weight of its presence pressing down on him.

Seraphis stopped at the edge of the clearing, turning to face them. "This is the Eldergrove," she said quietly, her voice reverent. "The heart of ancient magic. And this is where we will break the curse."

Draven tensed beside Kael, his wings twitching as if they sensed the raw power radiating from the tree. He wasn't afraid, but there was a wary intensity in his gaze.

"And the cost?" Draven asked, his voice low, guarded.

Seraphis's expression softened slightly, but there was a gravity behind her words. "The Eldergrove requires a sacrifice for such powerful magic. Blood must be spilled to break the curse."

Kael felt his stomach knot. "Whose blood?" he asked cautiously, fearing the answer.

Seraphis's silver eyes flicked to Kael, then held his gaze. "His."

Draven froze, his golden eyes narrowing. "No," he said sharply, stepping protectively in front of Kael. "You can't be serious."

Kael felt a surge of anxiety rise within him, but Seraphis remained calm, her eyes unwavering. "Kael's blood is the key," she explained. "He is tied to you now, Draven. The bond between you is what can break the chains of the past. But that magic demands a price."

"No," Draven growled, his wings unfurling slightly in his agitation. "You're not going to touch him. I won't allow it."

Kael placed a hand on Draven's arm, feeling the tension thrumming beneath his skin. "Draven, wait. Let her explain."