Tami's new connection

"So, sister, now that we are alone, what brings you and your knights to Everwood? Are you on a quest to kill the necromancer in the west?" Lyra asked, her voice filled with curiosity.

"Necromancer?" Sara responded, puzzled.

"Yes, the necromancer rumored to appear up in the mountain west of Bez'Eru. But I have news—the lord's son Algren and his heroic adventurers have subdued him, and it's all taken care of now."

"Oh, I see," Sara said thoughtfully. She hadn't heard about this necromancer, but it was fortunate that he was defeated so soon.

"No, my dear sister. My order and I are here to track down a demon lord. We have detected mana residue similar to that of a demon lord near the old ruined fortress to the south of Everwood. We've also learned that three people were seen near the forest by the ruins, so we are investigating it all. If it is a demon lord, we aim to kill it."

"A DEMON LORD!" Lyra yelled in surprise. "It's been many years—like 500 or 600 years—since the last one. Are you sure?"

"We're not completely sure, but we need to check it out."

"We are heading toward Bez'Eru in a week's time. Please give me all the information you have on anything you think could be relevant. Even the smallest detail might be what we are looking for."

.....

After spending a week at Tomi's forge, the group, now with an extra member, continued toward the mountain. The path ahead was rugged and winding, cutting through thick forests and across small streams. The air was crisp, and the sky above was a brilliant blue, dotted with the occasional fluffy cloud. The two faeries, Ella and Levy, flew ahead, their delicate wings glimmering in the sunlight, casting tiny rainbows in their wake.

Elara and Lilith walked side by side, their steps in sync, their spirits high. The bond between them had grown stronger over the past week, and they found comfort in each other's presence. The small Fenrir, Tami, darted around them, a blur of white fur and boundless energy. Her eyes sparkled with curiosity and excitement as she explored every nook and cranny of the trail.

"Tami, don't run around so much," Lilith said with a giggle, her eyes following the little Fenrir. "We still have a lot of ground to cover before we camp for the night."

Tami paused, tilting her head as if she understood Lilith's words, then resumed her playful antics, albeit at a slower pace.

Ella and Levy, who had been scouting ahead, returned with news. Levy's voice was cheerful as she began, "We found a perfect spot to camp for tonight. It should take around two hours to get there. There's water and a small forest. We will get to the waypoint tomorrow afternoon."

"So it is a perfect place," Elara remarked, her face lighting up with relief. The thought of a secure campsite with fresh water was a welcome one after a long day of travel.

Lilith turned to Tami, her smile warm and reassuring. "Did you hear that, Tami? It will take us two hours to get to the campsite. When we get there, I'll train and play with you. Lumi taught me some stuff I should try and teach you."

Tami barked happily, her tail wagging furiously at the promise of playtime and training. The group continued their journey, the sound of their laughter and chatter blending with the rustling leaves and the songs of distant birds.

As they walked, the landscape began to change. The dense forest gradually gave way to a more open area, with tall grasses swaying gently in the breeze. The sun dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows across their path. The anticipation of reaching the campsite and resting for the night filled them with renewed energy.

Finally, they arrived at the spot described by Ella and Levy. It was indeed perfect—a small clearing by a clear, bubbling stream, surrounded by tall, protective trees. The ground was soft with moss, and a gentle breeze carried the scent of pine and fresh water.

Elara and Lilith set about making camp, while Tami explored the immediate area, sniffing at everything with great interest. Ella and Levy flew around, gathering kindling and checking for any signs of danger.

Once the camp was set up, Lilith called Tami over. "Alright, Tami, let's see what Lumi taught me." She began to demonstrate some basic commands and tricks, her voice filled with encouragement and praise.

"So, what was it again?" Lilith murmured to herself. "Oh, yeah. Tami, put your forehead to mine, and then I'll use some magic to see if we can make a telepathic connection."

Tami obediently pressed her forehead against Lilith's, her eyes full of trust and curiosity. Lilith closed her eyes and began to focus, feeling the magic within her start to stir. But after a few moments, nothing happened. She sighed in frustration. "Hmm, it doesn't seem to work. What am I doing wrong?"

Elara, who had been watching them with interest, chimed in. "You could try asking Aurora. The dragon soul should make it a lot easier for you two."

Lilith's face lit up with realization. "You are right! Thanks, Elara." She took a deep breath and called out, "Aurora of the Northern Light, please can you help me?"

A soft, ethereal voice responded, sounding both amused and gentle. "Oh, young child, it's been a long time since you talked to me. Have you forgotten about me?"

Lilith's face turned a little red. She might indeed have forgotten about Aurora, but with all the new experiences and challenges, it was understandable. Aurora had been resting in her necklace for so long, after all.

"I'm sorry," Lilith said softly. "I might have neglected you a little."

"Don't worry, child. All I do is rest and save up my strength," Aurora reassured her. "Now, let me see. You wish to make a telepathic connection with this young Fenrir. With my help, it should be easy. Just follow my lead."

Lilith felt a surge of warmth and power as Aurora's presence enveloped her. She guided Lilith through the steps, showing her how to channel the magic properly. Lilith tried again, feeling more confident with Aurora's guidance.

"Alright, Tami, let's try this once more," Lilith said, her voice steady. She closed her eyes and focused, feeling the magic flow through her and into Tami. This time, there was a spark of connection, and Lilith felt a presence in her mind that was distinctly Tami's.

"Can you hear me, Tami?" Lilith thought, sending the message through their newfound link.

Tami's excited yip echoed in her mind. "Yes! I can hear you, Lilith!"

Lilith opened her eyes, tears of joy forming. "We did it, Tami!"

Elara watched with a smile, feeling a sense of peace settle over the group. Tomorrow would bring new challenges, but for now, they were safe, and they were together. The night fell gently, the stars emerging one by one to keep watch over them as they rested, ready to face whatever the journey ahead would bring.