Chapitre 35: 35
### Chapter 36: The Call to Allies
The air crackled with anticipation as Ashfall, Kera, and Tides made their way back through the Wildwood. The lessons from the Elders still echoed in their minds, bolstering their resolve. The path ahead was clear: they needed to gather allies, and they needed to do it swiftly.
**"Our first stop should be the Lost Clans of the North,"** Ashfall suggested as they walked, the soft crunch of leaves underfoot punctuating his words. **"If the legends are true, they possess powerful warriors skilled in ancient magics."**
Kera nodded, her expression serious. **"The clans have always been reclusive, but if we present our cause and the threat of the shadows, they may respond."**
Tides, who had been quiet, added thoughtfully, **"What about the Sea Guardians? They have knowledge of the waters and could provide valuable support against the shadows."**
**"Exactly,"** Ashfall agreed. **"And the Emberkin have fire magic that could turn the tide of battle. We need to reach out to all of them."**
### Preparing for the Journey
Before they departed, they decided to rest for the night in a small clearing not far from the Vale. As they gathered around a flickering campfire, the weight of their task settled in.
**"How do we even begin to find the clans?"** Tides asked, poking at the fire with a stick. **"They're hidden in the mountains."**
Kera leaned forward, her brow furrowed in concentration. **"We'll need to find a guide. Someone familiar with the northern regions who can lead us safely."**
Ashfall gazed into the fire, the flames dancing with an intensity that mirrored his thoughts. **"I know a few traders who venture into the northern territories. If we can find one, they might help us navigate."**
### The First Lead
The next morning, they broke camp and set out toward a nearby town known for its trade routes. As they approached the settlement, the familiar sounds of bustling markets filled the air—vendors shouting, people haggling, and the smell of fresh bread wafting through the streets.
**"Stay alert,"** Ashfall reminded his companions. **"We're not just looking for a trader; we need someone who understands the clans."**
As they walked through the market, Kera's sharp eyes caught sight of a weathered man leaning against a stall filled with colorful fabrics. His beard was long and gray, and his eyes held the kind of wisdom that only came from years of travel.
**"He looks like he's seen a lot,"** Kera remarked, nudging Ashfall.
They approached the man cautiously. **"Excuse us,"** Ashfall said respectfully. **"Are you a trader?"**
The man looked them over, his gaze piercing. **"Aye, I've traded goods and stories across these lands. What brings three young Wardens to my corner of the world?"**
### The Proposal
Ashfall straightened, sensing an opportunity. **"We seek passage to the Lost Clans of the North. We need a guide—someone who knows the terrain and can help us navigate the mountains."**
The trader stroked his beard thoughtfully. **"The clans are a proud folk, not easily swayed. But if you face the shadows, they might listen."**
**"We plan to unite the clans against a greater threat,"** Kera added, her voice firm. **"We've faced the darkness before, and we need their strength."**
The trader raised an eyebrow, intrigued. **"You've fought shadows? That's no small feat. If you truly wish to see the clans, you'll need to prove your worth. They respect strength and courage above all else."**
**"What do you suggest?"** Ashfall asked, his interest piqued.
### A Test of Worth
The trader nodded, his eyes glinting with mischief. **"There's a beast that has been troubling the outskirts of the town—a massive wolf, larger than any I've seen. It's been preying on livestock and instilling fear among the villagers. If you can take it down, you'll earn the respect of the people—and I'll guide you to the clans."**
Kera exchanged a determined glance with Ashfall and Tides. **"We'll do it. Where can we find this wolf?"**
The trader gestured toward the forest on the outskirts of town. **"It roams the woods at dusk. I'd advise being cautious; it's cunning and fierce."**
### Into the Woods
With their course set, the Wardens prepared for the hunt. They gathered supplies and sharpened their weapons, their determination solidifying. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, they made their way into the forest.
**"Stay close and alert,"** Ashfall instructed, his eyes scanning the shadows. **"We'll set a trap to lure it out."**
Kera nodded, her twin blades glinting in the fading light. **"I can create a diversion while you two flank it."**
Tides flexed his fingers, readying his magic. **"I can create a barrier to keep it contained once we draw it out."**
As they delved deeper into the woods, the sounds of the forest enveloped them—the rustle of leaves, the chirping of crickets, and the distant call of a lone owl. The atmosphere grew tense, thick with anticipation.
### The Encounter
They reached a small clearing where they could lay their trap. Kera moved swiftly, setting up a series of snares and placing some bait to lure the wolf in.
**"Let's hide and wait,"** Ashfall suggested, finding a position behind a cluster of bushes.
Minutes stretched into what felt like hours, the tension in the air palpable. Just as they were beginning to doubt their plan, a low growl echoed through the trees, sending a shiver down their spines.
**"It's here,"** Tides whispered, his eyes wide.
The massive wolf emerged from the shadows, its fur dark as night and eyes gleaming with hunger. Its presence filled the clearing, radiating a primal energy that made Ashfall's heart race.
**"Now!"** Kera called, her voice sharp as she leaped from her hiding place.
With precision, she charged at the wolf, drawing its attention as Ashfall and Tides flanked it from the sides. The wolf snarled, its teeth bared, as it turned to face Kera.
### The Battle
Kera danced around the wolf, her movements fluid and agile. She struck with her blades, each cut aimed to distract and weaken. The wolf retaliated, lunging at her with fierce determination.
**"Now, Tides!"** Ashfall shouted as he prepared to strike.
With a surge of magic, Tides summoned a shimmering barrier that encircled the wolf, trapping it momentarily. Ashfall seized the opportunity, charging in with his sword raised.
The wolf howled in frustration, clawing at the barrier. Ashfall and Kera pressed the attack, their strikes precise and powerful. The battle was intense, the air crackling with energy as they fought together, a well-oiled machine.
**"Keep it distracted!"** Tides shouted, focusing his energy to strengthen the barrier.
Kera danced around the wolf, her blades flashing. **"I've got it!"** she yelled, just as the wolf broke free from the barrier, its growl reverberating through the clearing.
### A Final Stand
With a renewed ferocity, the wolf lunged at Ashfall, who sidestepped just in time. He slashed at its flank, drawing blood. The wolf staggered, and Kera took her chance, leaping onto its back and driving her blade toward its heart.
The creature roared in pain, thrashing wildly. Ashfall quickly joined her, striking down with all his might. In one final, desperate blow, they brought the wolf to the ground.
As it lay still, the clearing fell silent, save for their heavy breathing. They had done it.
### Victorious Return
Exhausted but victorious, the Wardens made their way back to the trader. The sun had fully set, and the stars began to twinkle above, a reminder of the larger world around them.
**"You did it!"** the trader exclaimed, his eyes wide as he saw the defeated beast. **"You've proven your worth."**
Ashfall wiped the sweat from his brow, a grin spreading across his face. **"Now, will you guide us to the Lost Clans?"**
The trader nodded, respect evident in his demeanor. **"Aye, we leave at dawn. Prepare yourselves for the journey ahead. The north holds many secrets."**
As they settled down for the night, Ashfall reflected on their victory. They had faced a formidable foe and emerged stronger. The path to the clans was beginning to unfold, and with it, the hope of uniting their world against the shadows.
Together, they would rise to meet the challenge, forging bonds that would withstand the trials ahead.
État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
-- Classement
Power Stone 
-- Power
stone