Chapter 72: Dead End
While the world burned under the chaos of rampaging beasts, Auren remained half-conscious as Robert carried him swiftly through the eastern edge of Runewood, heading toward what used to be their safe haven.
"Hold on, kid... we’re almost there..." Robert muttered, his voice strained but determined. His legs pounded the dirt path, eyes glowing with alertness as he weaved through the forest trails, ready to dodge stray fireballs or the deadly tremors caused by battling titans in the distance.
But deep inside Auren’s mind, things were even worse.
The once-vibrant glowing lake in his mental space—his sanctuary—was now bone-dry, cracked like a scorched riverbed in the heart of summer. In the middle of that desolate space sat his mental form, pale and gaunt, as if every ounce of moisture had been drained from him. His hands, usually steady and full of life, were blackened and charred like burnt coal.
And Bigbird was nowhere to be found.
In its place sat a golden egg—still, humming faintly, slowly pulsing with fading light. It had reverted back after unleashing its full power in that desperate clash against Vulkris. That final burst of energy hadn’t just tested Auren’s mana. It tore through his body, soul, and mind like a wildfire. The cost of survival had been steep—almost fatal.
When Inferna Hollow collapsed, it ripped through Auren like a stretched rubber band, flinging him back to the outside world just before the explosion slammed into him like a collapsing star. That impact shattered his transformation, drained him to his core.
He would’ve died right then and there—if not for Robert, and the emergency vial of health potion he managed to pour into Auren’s mouth just in time.
"Th-thanks, old man..." Auren whispered faintly in his mind. Speaking out loud hurt too much.
He managed a weak grin. "Damn... that was epic. So that’s my new avatar mode, huh?"
The grin faltered. "Way too painful though. I really need to find a better way to control my mana... maybe stretch that form longer than three minutes without frying my soul."
He turned toward the glowing egg beside him, his expression softening.