Chapter 7

Zephyr enjoyed what she was seeing around her life: green plants, animals going about their lives. It was amazing for someone who lived in a nuclear wasteland like she had. But then a sight before her, and the scent alerted her to the presence of Orcs, but not just any Orcs, but the ones who knocked her out and had her taken to the Bandit Fortress, which made her fight. A grin flickered onto her lips as her bow appeared in her hand. “Hey there! I remember you, the last time we spoke, you gave me free transport to a Bandit Fortress, I really owe you one, i hope you’ll allow me to return the favor in a way,” she said in a sarcastic tone.

The Orcs, caught off guard by Zephyr’s sudden appearance and confident demeanor, exchanged uncertain glances among themselves. One of them, likely the leader, stepped forward, brandishing a crude weapon.

“You think you can mock us, little creature? We’ll make you pay for what you did at the Bandit Fortress!” The Orc’s voice bellowed a mixture of anger and arrogance.

Zephyr, undeterred by their threats, drew her Celestial Bow’s string, its celestial glow casting an otherworldly aura around her. “I’d suggest you think twice before challenging someone with a celestial weapon. But, hey, if you insist on a rematch, let’s dance.”

With that, Zephyr swiftly loosed an arrow, its celestial energy trailing behind it as it sailed toward the Orc leader, marking the beginning of the confrontation. The Orcs, now facing a much more formidable opponent, readied themselves for the unexpected turn of events.

The arrow met its mark dead center on the orc, and since she had the for-sight to use a lightning arrow, the Orc also received elemental damage. “Creature, huh? Partly correct,” she said out loud as she began her attack on the other Orcs as well.

The celestial energy surged through the Orc leader, electrocuting him and causing significant damage. The other Orcs, witnessing the power of the celestial weapon, hesitated for a moment before charging at Zephyr with renewed fury.

Zephyr, utilizing her Velociraptor agility and precise marksmanship, continued to unleash a barrage of celestial arrows. Each shot found its target incapacitating Orc after Orc. The celestial glow and energy effects added an ethereal spectacle to the battle, creating an awe-inspiring display of power.

The Orcs, realizing the dire situation, attempted to regroup and strategize. However, Zephyr’s relentless assault and her superior combat skills left them struggling to mount an effective defense. As the battle unfolded, the Orcs found themselves facing a force beyond their comprehension—a Celestial Champion armed with a weapon of divine origin. The tides of the skirmish seemed to be turning decisively in favor of Zephyr.

Try as the orcs might, they had a very difficult time handling Zephyr, making them deeply regretting their choice in knocking her out in the first place. One by one orcs fell to her speed and accuracy until finally the last orc fell. What’s more, the orc group was menacing an innocent Fairy, and a Halfling, whom she had saved.

Zephyr, with her celestial bow still in hand and a fierce determination in her eyes, stood victorious amid the fallen Orcs. The rescued Fairy and Halfling, grateful for her intervention, looked at Zephyr with a mix of relief and admiration.

“Thank you, Celestial Champion,” the Fairy spoke, her voice carrying a melodic tone. “We were in dire straits, and your arrival was like a blessing from the heavens.”

Zephyr nodded, acknowledging their gratitude. “I’m here to help those in need. If there’s anything else I can do for you or if you have any information about the area, I’d appreciate it.”

The Halfling, still catching his breath, chimed in, “You’re a true hero, miss. We were on our way to a nearby village when those Orcs ambushed us. I’m Finn, and this here’s Luna,” he gestured to the Fairy.

“Luna Whisperwind,” the Fairy introduced herself with a graceful bow. “Our heartfelt thanks, Celestial Champion.”

Zephyr smiled warmly, “No need for formalities. I’m Zephyr Circuitail. It’s my pleasure to help. Now, if you’re headed to a village, I can accompany you to ensure you reach your destination safely. And if there’s anything else troubling this region, I’d like to know about it.”

The trio, now united through the twists of fate, set off towards the nearby village, their journey marked by the glow of Zephyr’s Celestial Bow—a symbol of protection and hope in the face of adversity.

As Zephyr walked alongside Fairy Luna Whisperwind and Halfling Fin, she directed her questions towards non-Earth Clan humans. During which Zephyr discovered that Luna was the daughter of the Scholar Fairy she had saved in the Fairy village.

As they walked toward the village, Zephyr engaged in conversation with Luna and Finn, learning more about their experiences and the current state of the region. Luna shared insights about the scholarly pursuits of her father, the Scholar Fairy, and the wisdom passed down through their magical lineage.

Finn, on the other hand, spoke of his adventures as a Halfling traveler, regaling Zephyr with tales of distant lands and encounters with various creatures. Zephyr, in turn, shared stories of her own journey, explaining her origins as a Synthonian and the recent developments within Earth Clan.

As they approached the village, Zephyr couldn’t help but feel a sense of camaraderie with Luna and Finn. The diverse group, consisting of a Fairy, a Halfling, and a Synthonian Celestial Champion, reflected the unity Earth Clan sought to foster in this enchanted world.

Upon reaching the village, they were greeted by curious villagers who were both astonished and grateful for Zephyr’s presence. Luna introduced Zephyr to the village leader, an elderly human who welcomed them and expressed gratitude for the assistance.

“I’ve heard tales of your deeds, Celestial Champion. We are honored to have you among us,” the village leader said with respect.

Zephyr nodded graciously, “I’m here to offer any help I can. If there are any challenges or threats in this region, please share the information. Together, we can ensure the safety and prosperity of this land.”

The villagers began to recount recent troubles, mentioning increased Orc and monster activity in the nearby forest. Zephyr listened attentively, her mind already formulating a plan to address the emerging threats and protect the villages in the area. The journey of the Celestial Champion continued, as each step brought new challenges and opportunities to make a difference in this magical realm.

As she formed plans, she figured out which monster or Orc she should face next. While she wanted to speak to the village’s leader, she also wanted to address their issues first. She thought doing so will allow her a chance to speak with him in a calmer setting.

Zephyr expressed her gratitude to the village leader for the information and assured him that she would deal with the Orcs and monsters troubling the region. Luna and Finn volunteered to accompany her, and the trio set off towards the forest where the disturbances were reported.

As they entered the wooded area, Zephyr’s senses heightened her technological enhancements and Synthonian abilities, allowing her to detect the presence of Orcs and monsters. The forest ambiance gradually shifted from peaceful to foreboding as they ventured deeper.

Soon, the group encountered a group of Orcs, led by a particularly brutish Orc chieftain. Zephyr, with her Celestial Bow at the ready, took charge of the situation. Luna and Finn, each armed with their own unique abilities, stood by her side.

Zephyr addressed the Orc chieftain with a firm tone, “Your presence here disrupts the peace of these lands. I offer you a chance to leave peacefully. If you refuse, be prepared to face the consequences.”

The Orc chieftain, unyielding and belligerent, responded with a guttural roar, signaling the start of the confrontation. Zephyr swiftly fired arrows imbued with elemental power, Luna utilized her fairy magic, and Finn showcased his nimble combat skills. The battle ensued, with the trio coordinating their efforts to overcome the Orc threat.

The struggle was intense, but Zephyr’s determination, combined with the skills of her newfound allies, prevailed. The Orc chieftain fell, and the remaining Orcs retreated into the shadows. The forest, once disturbed, began to regain its tranquility.

Zephyr turned to Luna and Finn, acknowledging their contribution. “Thank you both. Your assistance was invaluable. With these Orcs dealt with, the village should have some respite. Now, let’s return and inform the village leader of our success.”

As they made their way back to the village, Zephyr couldn’t help but feel a growing sense of camaraderie with Luna and Finn. Each encounter and battle strengthened the bonds among Earth Clan members and their allies in this enchanted realm. The journey continued, and new challenges waited on the horizon.

As they made it to the gates of the villages, and their job was done, the villagers expressed their gratitude, and joy as Zephyr was led back to the Village Leader.

Zephyr, Luna, and Finn were greeted by the village leader, who observed their return with a mixture of relief and gratitude. The village leader approached them, and Zephyr offered a respectful nod.

“Thank you, Celestial Champion, for ridding our lands of the Orc threat. Your valor has brought peace back to our humble village,” the village leader expressed with sincere appreciation.

Zephyr replied, “It was my duty to ensure the safety of your people. If you ever face such threats again, do not hesitate to seek assistance. We are allies in this realm.”

Luna and Finn also received expressions of gratitude from the villagers. The three heroes then shared information with the village leader about their journey, the Orc presence, and their plan to explore further and assist other settlements.

The village leader listened attentively and acknowledged their efforts. “May the blessings of the enchanted realms guide you on your journey. If there is ever anything we can do to aid you, consider us allies.”

As Zephyr, Luna, and Finn prepared to resume their exploration, the village leader offered them provisions and supplies to aid them on their path. Grateful for the support, the trio bid farewell to the village, knowing that their bonds with the local communities were growing stronger.

Their journey continued, filled with new challenges and discoveries in this mystical world. Zephyr felt a sense of purpose, knowing that every step brought them closer to unraveling the mysteries of this enchanted realm and forging alliances that would shape the fate of Earth Clan.

Luna and Finn also received expressions of gratitude from the villagers. The three heroes then shared information with the village leader about their journey, the Orc presence, and their plan to explore further and assist other settlements.

The village leader listened attentively and acknowledged their efforts. “May the blessings of the enchanted realms guide you on your journey. If there is ever anything we can do to aid you, consider us allies.” Zephyr was pleased with this, but the other reason for her travels reminded her. “Before I leave, I wanted to talk to you about something else, sir. I don’t know if you have heard of another portal bringing in people to this world, but they are human, from the planet Earth. Here they are known as a group called Earth Clan. I have been told that humans were already here, and so wanted to meet other humans, of which I am only partly human.” She told the leader.

The village leader listened intently to Zephyr’s words, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. As the Celestial Champion spoke of Earth Clan and her quest to connect with other humans in this realm, the village leader’s eyes held a glint of recognition.

“Indeed, Celestial Champion, we have heard whispers of another group of humans known as Earth Clan. Their arrival has been spoken of in the enchanted realms, and there are stories circulating about their deeds and alliances,” the village leader responded. “However, contact between our people has been limited. Earth Clan is said to have established a presence in the Elven city-state of Eldrinthia, where they found sanctuary and formed bonds with the elves.”

He paused, considering Zephyr’s unique background. “It is rare to find individuals who share your connection to both Earth Clan and Nirvaliseria. If you seek to meet other humans, Eldrinthia might be a suitable place to start. The elves there have shown kindness and acceptance to Earth Clan, forging alliances and shared endeavors.”

Zephyr nodded, grateful for the information. “Thank you, sir. I appreciate your guidance. If our paths cross again, know that Earth Clan is here as allies.”

With that, the trio bid farewell to the village leader and the grateful villagers. As they resumed their journey, Zephyr contemplated the information about Earth Clan and Eldrinthia, wondering about the connections that awaited her in the Elven city-state.

With that, the trio bid farewell to the village leader and the grateful villagers. As they resumed their journey, Zephyr contemplated the information about Earth Clan and Eldrinthia, she knew of Earth Clan having been at once point there, but now moved to their new home in the port city. She made sure to give this information to the leader, thinking he could use his connections to talk to the other non-Earth Clan humans still among the living.

As Zephyr, Luna, and Finn continued their journey, Zephyr shared the updated information about Earth Clan’s current residence in the port city with the village leader. The leader nodded appreciatively, recognizing the value of keeping abreast of the movements and alliances among the various groups in the enchanted realms.

“Your information is valuable, Celestial Champion. Knowledge of Earth Clan’s new home will be relayed, and we shall remain vigilant in fostering connections with other humans who find themselves in this realm,” the village leader assured.With that, the trio pressed forward on their journey, guided by the threads of destiny that intertwined their paths with the enchanted realms. As they ventured forth, the mysteries of this magical world unfolded before them, and the bonds of friendship forged in the face of adversity strengthened their resolve.

The trio’s journey to the next settlement was a long one, and they soon discovered that this next town was close to mountains. As they entered, they sought information on quests and jobs, and discovered one major request asked adventurers to go to the mountain to slay a dragon, so they went to the requester to talk to them about it for further information.

Entering the bustling town at the foot of the mountains, Zephyr, Luna, and Finn made their way to the quest board to explore available jobs. The prominent request calling for dragon slaying caught their attention, and they decided to seek out the quest giver for more details.

After inquiring with the locals, they were directed to a seasoned adventurer named Gruff Stoneheart, a burly dwarf with a long, braided beard and weathered armor. Gruff welcomed them and offered seats in his makeshift office within the local inn.

“So, you’re lookin’ to take on the dragon, eh?” Gruff rumbled, studying the trio. “It’s a tough job, no doubt. The beast’s been causin’ trouble up there, raidin’ caravans and snatchin’ livestock. The townsfolk have pooled their resources to offer a hefty reward for anyone who can rid us of this menace. Are you up for it?”

Zephyr, Luna, and Finn exchanged glances, considering the challenge that lay ahead. If they accepted the quest, it would not only test their strength but also contribute to the safety and well-being of the mountain town. The decision rested in their hands.

Zephyr was very interested for one thing dragon scales were durable and could be made into armor, either for themselves, or perhaps she hoped for fortifications, such as the ones around the Port city, Earth Clan now controlled, and for the other the dragon might have a hoard of riches too. “Certainly, I’d be up to it, but could you give us more information, like its color, and if it has a breath attack?” She asked.

Gruff Stoneheart nodded, appreciating Zephyr’s diligence. “Aye, good questions, this dragon is a green-scaled terror. Goes by the name of Veridrax, as for breath attacks, it spews a corrosive acid that can melt through armor and bone alike. So, keep your distance if you can.”

He leaned back, stroking his beard in thought. “I’ve gathered information that Veridrax has taken residence in a cave atop the mountain. Likely hoarding treasures, it’s plundered from unlucky travelers. Take heed, though. The path up there ain’t an easy one. You’ll face treacherous terrain and possibly other creatures drawn by the dragon’s presence.”

Gruff’s gaze scrutinized the trio. “But if you’re up for it, the town’s counting on you. The reward is substantial, and there’s gratitude aplenty. What say you?”

Zephyr processed the information, she knew that her fur can handle acid certainly enough but her outfit, she didn’t think so. She knew she’d need speed for this to work. She finally nodded her head, “I’m in,” she said and with that she stood up and walked towards the door, her tail swaying behind her as she went. Followed by the other two. She knew facing a dragon was dangerous, so she wouldn’t blame Luna or Finn if they didn’t want to do it.

The trio ventured out of the town, prepared to face the challenges that awaited them on the treacherous path up the mountain. The looming silhouette of the peak loitered on the horizon, a reminder of the formidable foe that awaited them—a dragon with scales as green as envy.

As they ascended, the air grew thinner, and the terrain became more rugged. Zephyr, Luna, and Finn navigated the rocky slopes, their eyes peeled for any signs of danger. The mountain path twisted and turned, leading them ever closer to the dragon’s lair.

Eventually, they reached the entrance of the cave, and a foreboding chill filled the air. The cavern’s gaping maw seemed to swallow the feeble light around it. Zephyr glanced at Luna and Finn, awaiting their decision to press forward into the darkness or turn back from the looming threat that awaited them within.

Eventually, they reached the entrance of the cave, and a foreboding chill filled the air. The cavern’s gaping maw seemed to swallow the feeble light around it. Zephyr glanced at Luna and Finn, awaiting their decision to press forward into the darkness or turn back from the looming threat that awaited them within. “If neither of you don’t want to do this, I’ll understand if you’d like to remain back and wait for me. I won’t blame nor feel anger towards you.” She told them.

Luna and Finn exchanged glances, each contemplating the risks that lay ahead. Luna spoke first, her determination evident in her voice, “We started this journey together, and I’m not turning back now. We’ll face the dragon together, Zephyr.”

Finn nodded in agreement, “Count me in, too. If we work as a team, we can do this.”

With a shared sense of resolve, the trio stepped into the cavern, the oppressive darkness enveloping them. The cavern walls seemed to absorb any source of light, leaving them in near-complete darkness. Zephyr activated the night vision function on her visor, revealing the contours of the cave and a faint, distant glow further inside.

As they ventured deeper, the distant glow intensified, revealing a vast chamber at the heart of the mountain. In the center, coiled upon a pile of glittering treasures, lay the green-scaled dragon. The air was heavy with the scent of sulfur, and the dragon stirred as they approached, its eyes narrowing in suspicion.

Zephyr, Luna, and Finn stood at the threshold of the dragon’s lair, ready to face the formidable foe that guarded the riches within. The dragon regarded them with a mix of curiosity and hostility, and the cavern echoed with the anticipation of an imminent clash. The battle was about to begin.

Veridrax, the green-scaled dragon, unleashed a mighty roar that reverberated through the cavern. Its eyes glowed with an ominous green light, and it spread its wings wide as it prepared to engage the intruders. The dragon’s tail swished menacingly, and its claws scraped against the glittering treasure beneath.

“Hello there,” Zephyr said to the dragon, Zephyr’s greeting seemed to catch the dragon off guard for a moment, as if surprised by the audacity of its challengers. However, that momentary hesitation was quickly replaced by a burst of acid breath. A torrent of corrosive liquid sprayed toward the trio, causing them to quickly evade the danger.

Zephyr, relying on her speed and agility, managed to dodge the acid breath and positioned herself for a counterattack. Luna and Finn sought cover behind nearby rocks, preparing their own abilities to join the fight.

With a swift movement, Zephyr drew her bowstring and released a lightning arrow aimed at Veridrax’s underbelly. The arrow streaked through the air, crackling with electric energy. The dragon, now fully aware of the danger posed by the intruders, cried out in pain as the lightning struck with precision.

The battle was joined in earnest, and the cavern echoed with the clash of steel, the roar of the dragon, and the crackling of magical energy. Zephyr, Luna, and Finn fought together, coordinating their attacks and exploiting the dragon’s vulnerabilities.

As the battle unfolded, the outcome remained uncertain. The dragon, a formidable opponent, fought fiercely to defend its hoard. The adventurers, determined to succeed, pressed on, hoping to emerge victorious against the mighty Veridrax.

Veridrax, despite its ferocity, began to show signs of weariness under the relentless assault of Zephyr, Luna, and Finn. The lightning arrows from Zephyr, combined with Luna’s magical spells and Finn’s agile strikes, took a toll on the green-scaled dragon. Veridrax roared in frustration, it’s once intimidating demeanor now tinged with a hint of desperation.

The adventurers, fueled by their determination and teamwork, pressed their advantage. Zephyr continued to dart around, firing arrows with precision. Luna weaved powerful spells, exploiting the dragon’s vulnerabilities. Finn utilized his ability to strike at the dragon’s flanks and distract it from its more powerful attacks.