Chapter 13 :The Morang Race

He reached out, his hand trembling slightly as he took the medallion from his mother's grasp. He couldn't help but notice the tear that traced down her cheek, mirroring the one that slipped from his own.

 Aerovind's voice was heavy with emotion as he whispered, "Thank you, Mother. I love you." He kissed her forehead gently before turning away with a heart as heavy as lead. The medallion resting against his chest brought comfort.

Aerovind stepped outside into the crisp morning air, his heart an encroaching tempest of emotions as he surveyed the sleepy village below.

The first light of dawn gently caressed the thatched roofs of the village, painting them in hues of gold and pink. Wisps of smoke danced from chimneys, carrying the tantalizing scent of freshly baked bread on the crisp morning air.

Aerovind stood at the edge of the village, his gaze lingering on familiar faces and humble abodes he had known since childhood.

Inhaling deeply, he lifted his voice to the awakening village, declaring, "I am Aerovind, son of Eagar! Today marks the beginning of my journey towards greatness.

When next we meet, I shall return as the most powerful and wealthiest being this village has ever seen. This is not just a promise; it is my solemn oath."

With his final words ringing in the air, Aerovind turned away from the village and began his journey.

Aerovind descended the winding path from the mystical village, his senses immediately entranced by the enchanting morning sun. The rolling hills, cloaked in a vibrant emerald hue, seemed to dance with joy as they greeted him.

He couldn't resist stopping to admire the wildflowers that bloomed in an array of dazzling colors.

Upon reaching the hill's peak, Aerovind was struck with wonder at the breathtaking view before him.

The lush forest stretched out endlessly, each tree a majestic blend of sage and olive.

The morning mist enveloped the treetops like a delicate veil, adding to the ethereal atmosphere.

And in the distance, a sparkling river twisted and turned like a glimmering silver ribbon.

Filled with renewed energy and awe, Aerovind hurried down the hillside, eager to explore this magical land further.

Aerovind journeyed further into the heart of the woodland, it felt as if he had stepped straight into an animated fable.

The atmosphere was saturated with the intoxicating aroma of wild blossoms and fresh pine, while the soft crunching of foliage under his boots provided a comforting melody.

He stumbled upon a quaint glade where a group of deer were quietly nibbling at the grass.

At his arrival, they raised their heads, their enchanting glossy eyes examining him with intrigue. Gently lowering himself to their level, Aerovind reached out to caress the youngest among them.

The deer did not flinch away from his touch but instead seemed to embrace it, rubbing its velvety nose against his palm.

Its mother watched on with a calm expression, seemingly approving of Aerovind's gentle nature.

"Turin, creatures of the wild seem to be drawn to you," came a hushed murmur from behind. Aerovind swiveled around, his gaze landing on a figure clad in a robe.

His skin bore the hue of lush forest moss, a stark contrast against the scarlet apparel.

A pair of twisted horns curled from his forehead, framing his face like an ominous crown, while sharp fangs peeked out from beneath his lips, glistening under the dim light.

Aerovind gasped, his heart pounding in his chest.

"A--A MONSTER!!!"

A deep chuckle rumbled from the creature, causing Aerovind's spine to tingle with fear. Yet, there was a hint of amusement in the laugh that calmed his nerves.

"I am not a monster; it seems you've never encountered a morang before, young one," the creature replied in a smooth, silky voice. "My name is Thorgar the Wild."

Aerovind gulped, trying to steady his breath as he eyed the creature warily. "M-morang? I've never heard of such a thing. And what do you want from me?"

A soft, amused rumble echoed from Thorgar the Wild. "Ah, I perceive your curiosity," he said, his eyes gleaming with a hint of mischief.

"If you desire to understand my kin better, I have a humble dwelling not far from here. I was in pursuit of game nearby when our paths crossed.

The sun is on its descent and will soon be swallowed by the horizon's maw. Would you care to accompany me?"

For a heartbeat, Aerovind found himself caught in indecision.

Fear gnawed at his insides at the sight of the beastly figure before him, yet as dusk threatened to cloak the world in darkness, he knew remaining with the morang was his safest option - despite its daunting exterior, it seemed to exude an unexpected warmth.

Gathering what little courage he had left, he managed to utter a shaky agreement. "I... I'll join you at your home," he stammered out, attempting to inject a sense of bravery into his voice that he didn't feel.

"But I need your word that I can depart whenever I choose." Thorgar the Wild responded with a nod, his horns bobbing in comprehension.

"A reasonable request, whelp," he rumbled deeply. "Now come along and let's enjoy the comfort of my abode together."

Aerovind trailed behind Thorgar the Wild, his eyes darting around for any hint of threat.

Even with his nerves on edge, he found himself drawn to the forest's grandeur as they ventured further into its core.

In what seemed like an unending journey, they finally stumbled upon a secluded clearing, ringed by towering timberland. A compact tent and a stone hearth held court in the center.

"We'll rest our weary bones here before we press on towards the cabin," Thorgar said, his voice heavy with exhaustion. He let out a sigh then added, "It's unfortunate there's no game - I'm worn to the bone from hunting and for Dal's sake, haven't had any luck for two days straight."

Aerovind stuttered nervously, offering a small piece of bread. "I-I have some. Would you like to share it with me?"

Thorgar's eyes lit up at the mention of bread. "Bless you, young one," he said in a deep voice, his face softening slightly. "Your generosity is truly appreciated."

The cloak of darkness descended, and Aerovind found himself sharing the warmth of the stone hearth with Thorgar the Wild, tearing into chunks of hearty bread.

"So, Turin," Thorgar began, his voice brimming with a curious undertone. "What are you seeking to learn about our kin that might help soothe your nerves?" He chuckled lightly, casting a teasing glance toward Aerovind. "I noticed you were nearly drenched in fear."

Aerovind swallowed hard, feeling the calmness of the hearth wash over him. "I... I'm curious about you and your kind," he admitted, his voice barely a whisper.

"I've never seen anything like you before, and why do you call me Turin?"

Thorgar studied him for a moment before nodding slowly.

"I see. Well then," he said, settling back against a large boulder near the fire. "Let me tell you a tale of our people."

Thorgar the Wild began his story in a low murmur, his words lulling Aerovind into a state of rapt attention.

He spun a tale of an era when Soulinya was the dominion of dragons, deities, and demons alone. A time untouched by any other species but these three formidable beings. The lands echoed with the might of twelve gods and an equal number of dragons, their power balanced only by the presence of seven formidable demons.

"Bleak, the deity of the deep abyss, towered above them all in might. He was the architect of enchantments, weaving magic into existence for his divine brethren to wield.

It was he who had subdued a dragon, not through force but with words and wisdom, transforming it from foe to companion. Yet with his escalating power came a parallel increase in sorrow."

The Morang paused for a moment, his gaze fixed on the embers of the fire as if lost in thought.