Eric Vang's Quest of the heart

The High Council

Eric prepares the teleportation scroll, focusing on the destination. His companions brace themselves as he recites the incantation. Upon successful teleportation, they arrive in Freehaven's town square, drawing surprised looks from the residents. The group's unity is evident as they stand together, having completed their quest to slay the lich and claim their reward, bringing peace to the lands. The town's reaction underscores their heroic deed.

Elian, the emissary from the High Council of Elders, approached Eric and Axel as they dismounted from Storm and Silver, " Eric and Axel, your bravery is commendable. The council will be overjoyed with your success."

Eric nodded, feeling a weight lifted from his shoulders, "Thank you, Elian. It wasn't easy, but we managed." He looked at his companions, the bond between them stronger than ever. The townsfolk began to gather around, whispering and pointing, their expressions a mix of awe and fear of their powers. The news of their victory spread like wildfire, and soon they were surrounded by a crowd of curious and grateful people.

Axel's hand rested on Eric's shoulder, his eyes filled with a solemn respect. "You need to rest, Eric," he said firmly. "Your wounds are still fresh, and we have a lot to report to the council."

Eric nodded, feeling the fatigue weigh heavily on his body. He knew Axel was right; he had pushed himself to the limit, and his body was begging for reprieve. "You go ahead," he murmured. "I'll follow after I've had a moment to collect myself."

Axel's expression softened, and he squeezed Eric's shoulder. "Take all the time you need," he said. "I will handle the council. Just go rest." With a nod to the others, he strode off towards the council chamber, the heavy bag of treasure swinging at his side. Shadow and Snowflake lingered for a moment, their blue eyes filled with concern before they trotted after Axel, leaving Eric with Silver and Storm.

He looked around the square, feeling the energy of the town pulsing around him. The smell of roasting meats and baking bread filled the air, and the sound of laughter and cheerful chatter grew louder as the townsfolk realized that the threat to their lives had been vanquished. Despite the pain of his injuries and the exhaustion that threatened to pull him under, Eric felt a sense of belonging, a warmth that spread through him like the sun's first rays after a stormy night.

"Take care of yourself," he murmured, his hand lingering for a moment on the stallion's neck. The horse nickered softly in response; his eyes filled with understanding. Sliver, in her fox form, leaped onto his shoulder, her fluffy tail brushing against his cheek. He stumbled slightly under her weight, but she was light as a feather, her warmth a comfort to him.

The room provided by the council was simple but clean, with a large bed piled with fur blankets that beckoned to him like a warm embrace. The walls were adorned with tapestries depicting scenes of battles long past, reminding him of the history that had led to this moment. He could feel the weight of the townsfolk's expectations, but he pushed them aside for now. He needed rest, and he would face the council once he had gathered his strength.

With a sigh, Eric let himself collapse onto the bed, his body aching from the exertion of the battle. He could feel the warmth of the potions working through him, knitting his ribs and flesh back together. His eyes fluttered closed, and he listened to the gentle patter of rain outside the window. It was a soothing lullaby, a stark contrast to the roar of the Spine Mountains.

The soft whispers of the rain grew louder in his ears, turning into a gentle cascade of water that washed over him, soothing his bruised and burnt skin. His mind drifted, and he saw himself swimming in a warm, crystal-clear pool, surrounded by lush greenery. The water felt like a gentle caress, easing the pain and tension from his muscles. He could feel the warmth of the sun on his scales, the heat penetrating deep into his bones, healing him from the inside out. It was a tranquil, peaceful place, far removed from the cold embrace of the Spine Mountains.