Tears of Ashes En-Us

Chapter 7: The Time of Strength and Wisdom

The days turned into weeks in the forest, and Eldric and Lira found a new rhythm in their lives. The vibrant green around it served as a refuge and, at the same time, a training ground. The sounds of nature, previously just a backdrop, became part of their new daily life, accompanying every step they took in search of survival and self-knowledge.

Eldric, wielding his sword and axe, devoted his mornings to physical training. He practiced slashing and thrusting against fallen tree trunks, focusing on the precision and power of his blows. The memory of the thugs who had held him captive propelled him, each movement becoming a way to channel his pain into power.

Lira, on the other hand, was dedicated to the bow. She spent hours in an elevated place, using a clearing where she could observe and practice her aim. Each arrow she shot was a reminder of her strength, and she became more and more dexterous, developing an agility that made her stand out. The sound of the bow stretching and the hum of arrows cutting through the air became music to his ears.

The two supported each other, honing not only their combat skills but also learning how to hunt and survive in the forest. Lira showed Eldric how to set simple traps to capture small animals, while he taught her how to use the sword in hand-to-hand combat situations.

"For every enemy we encounter, you must always be one step ahead," Eldric said, while demonstrating a parry technique. "The key is to move with confidence and never hesitate."

Lira smiled, his confidence growing every day. "And I'll always be ready to cover your back with an arrow, in case someone comes from behind."

After weeks of intense training, they began to venture further away from the clearing, exploring the edge of the forest in search of new challenges. Wildlife offered a range of tests—from hunting to defending against forest-dwelling creatures. Each encounter made them stronger, and the connection between them deepened.

One night, as they watched the stars from a high point, Lira turned to Eldric. "Have you ever thought about what we're going to do when we get out of here? Where are we going?"

Eldric thought for a moment. "I want to find a city where we can register in an adventurer's guild. We need a place where we can grow and face whatever is waiting for us."

"What about the bandits?" Lira asked, with a concern in his eyes.

"The bandits will pay for everything they have done. But first, we need to be prepared. We have to become stronger, wiser." He looked at the horizon. "But it won't just be about revenge. We also need to protect others who may suffer as we do."

With that, Eldric and Lira made a silent promise under the starlight: not only would they become strong, but they would also become heroes to those who could not defend themselves.

The following weeks were full of progress. Eldric perfected his use of Vérium, learning to control it, to turn it into a source of power that he could use in combat. The connection between him and Lira became more and more evident; Together, they were an unbeatable team, balancing strength and agility.

Finally, at a clear dawn, after months of training and growth, they decided it was time to set out in search of a nearby city. With backpacks full of supplies and determined hearts, they left the forest, ready to face whatever the world would throw at them.

As they walked, Eldric felt the weight of Vérium within him, but now he didn't see it as a burden, but as a source of power he could use to protect Lyra and himself. With each step, they drew closer to their destination, to the city that would mark the beginning of a new journey—and a new chapter in their lives.