Chapter 24: The Wings of War
The draconic war-wyrm hovered above the ravine, wings of black fire beating in slow, thunderous pulses. Its breath hissed with violet vapor, and every movement seemed tethered to Valerian's will. He stood atop the ridge, eyes glowing faintly, the crystal in his hand dimming after the summoning command: "Ascend."
Below, the shattered remnants of the Name-Eaters dissolved into dust. Whatever force they served had retreated, or more likely, was watching now.
Lira couldn't take her eyes off the creature.
"A draconic war-wyrm," she whispered again, as if saying it twice would make it real.
"They were wiped out during the Godfire Rebellion," Umbra said, materializing beside them. "And this one... this one has been reforged through necrotic ascension. It is undead."
Valerian's grip on the crystal tightened. "No... not undead. Reclaimed."
The wyrm let out a roar that split the clouds. Thunder rumbled in response.
> [New Companion Acquired: Arkanthros, The Reclaimed Wyrm (Level 45)]
Bond Strength: 1%
Warning: High Mana Drain. Long-Term Control Requires Advanced Core Synchronization.
Lira turned to him. "This isn't a summon. You bonded with it. That's... that's Forbidden Soulcraft."