Chapter 6: Chapter 6: A New Home Among the Trees
The first rays of dawn peeked through the towering trees of the sacred forest, casting golden light over the land Ethan now called home. The air was fresh, carrying the whispers of the wind and the distant laughter of mystical creatures. For the first time since his parents' passing, his heart felt lighter.
Ethan had spent his first night in a small wooden cottage built by the guardians. It wasn't as grand as his old home, but it held a comforting warmth. When he stepped outside, he was met with a breathtaking sight—creatures of all kinds gathered around, waiting to greet him.
Soft-furred deer-like beings with glowing antlers, tiny winged spirits that shimmered like the stars, and even a massive wolf with silver eyes bowed its head in respect. Despite his sorrow, their kindness reached him, warming the hollow space in his chest.
At first, Ethan was hesitant, unsure of how to interact with them. But the creatures were patient, approaching him with gentle curiosity. A small, squirrel-like creature with golden fur climbed onto his shoulder, nuzzling his cheek as if to comfort him. A playful water spirit splashed at his feet, coaxing a reluctant laugh from him. The massive silver wolf that had gifted him strength lay beside him protectively, as if sensing the emotions he struggled to express.
Over the next few days, Ethan slowly opened up to them. He fed the smaller creatures with berries he found, learning which ones were safe with the help of a wise old owl that hooted approvingly at his choices. The fire spirits danced around him at night, their warm glow a reassuring presence when he felt alone. Even the wind spirits would tug at his clothes playfully, urging him to run with them, testing his newfound speed.
One evening, he sat by a sparkling lake, tossing pebbles into the water. A large, serpent-like being with sapphire scales emerged, its gentle eyes studying him. Without a word, Ethan reached out, placing his hand on its smooth scales. The creature hummed in response, a deep, soothing sound that sent ripples across the lake. In that moment, Ethan knew—he was one of them now.
One by one, the creatures stepped forward, bestowing their blessings upon him. A gentle fox brushed against his legs, gifting him heightened senses. A water spirit danced around him, leaving behind a cool mist that seeped into his skin, enhancing his agility. Even the great silver wolf placed a paw on his shoulder, granting him strength. The last blessing came from a spirit of the wind, who whispered ancient words, filling him with an unnatural speed that made him feel as light as air.
Ethan couldn't help but smile.
By the third day, the real training began. The elder led him to a secluded clearing where books, weapons, and alchemical tools were laid out in an orderly fashion. The other guardians watched silently as the elder gestured for Ethan to sit.
"Today, you begin the path to reclaiming your destiny," the elder said solemnly. "Your power is still sealed, but you are not powerless. With discipline and patience, you will learn."
Ethan clenched his fists. He still didn't fully understand what was happening, but he knew one thing—he wanted to become stronger.
They started with alchemy, teaching him the properties of rare herbs and how to create simple potions. His first attempts were clumsy, but by the end of the lesson, he had successfully brewed a weak healing salve. Next came magic. The guardians showed him how to draw energy from nature, shaping it into small spells. With his power sealed, his magic was weak, but his control over it was surprisingly stable. He managed to conjure a small flame in his palm, watching it flicker before letting it fade away.
Then came combat training.
"Defend yourself," one of the guardians instructed, tossing Ethan a wooden sword. Before he could react, a light attack came his way, forcing him to block. His arms shook from the impact.
Again.
And again.
Each time, Ethan barely managed to keep up, but he refused to back down. Sweat dripped down his face as he steadied his stance. His speed, a gift from the wind spirit, helped him dodge some of the attacks, but his lack of experience was clear.
"Enough for today," the elder finally said, placing a hand on Ethan's shoulder. "You have potential, but you must build your foundation first. Strength alone is not enough."
Ethan nodded, breathing heavily. His muscles ached, but for the first time in a long while, he felt like he had a purpose.
As the sun set behind the trees, he sat by a small river, watching his reflection in the water. He had lost everything, yet here he was, in a place filled with beings who welcomed him. He wasn't alone.
Not anymore.
And so, his journey truly began.