As they emerged from the forest, Jason's eyes widened in awe. Before him sprawled Eryndor’s camp—a lively encampment brimming with vibrant tents adorned with colorful banners and flags. The HUD displayed a new update: Location: Eryndor’s Camp. The air was filled with a symphony of laughter, lively music, and the clanging of steel. Eryndor led Jason through the bustling camp, nodding in greeting to the many faces they passed.

They arrived at a large, intricately decorated tent. Eryndor pushed aside the flap and gestured for Jason to enter. Inside, the space was warmly lit by lanterns, casting a golden glow over plush rugs and inviting furniture. A crackling fire in the center radiated warmth.

HUD Update:

Current Status: Exhausted

Health: 75%

Magic Affliction: Dark Markings (Unknown Effect)

“Welcome to my humble abode, Jason,” Eryndor said, gesturing broadly to the room. “Make yourself comfortable. We’ll get you settled and then I’ll introduce you to the others.”

Jason’s gaze flitted around the tent, taking in the eclectic mix of instruments, books, and curious artifacts. His attention was drawn to a large, ornate mirror hanging on one wall, reflecting the room with an unsettling precision.

Eryndor handed Jason a steaming cup of tea. Jason took a grateful sip, feeling the warmth spread through his chilled bones. As they enjoyed their tea, Eryndor began explaining the various items around them, sharing tales of his travels and adventures.

Just as Jason was starting to relax, a soft voice called from outside the tent. “Eryndor, dear, I see you’ve returned. And with a new friend, no less.”

Eryndor’s face lit up with a smile. “Ah, Aurora, perfect timing. Come, meet Jason, the young man I’ve been telling you about.”

Aurora swept into the tent, her raven-black hair cascading down her back like a dark waterfall. Her piercing green eyes sparkled as she smiled, and Jason felt his heart skip a beat. She was stunning, her beauty rivaling that of Queen Ashline.

HUD Update:

Aurora’s Status: Friendly

“Aurora, this is Jason,” Eryndor introduced. “He’s a traveler from a distant land and is here to learn the ways of magic from me.”

Aurora’s gaze locked onto Jason, her eyes seeming to see right through him. “Welcome, Jason,” she said, her voice a smooth, confident murmur. “I’m Eryndor’s student sorcerer, and I must say, your arrival has piqued my interest. We don’t often get visitors from… elsewhere.”

Jason felt a flush of heat rise to his cheeks. He struggled to return her gaze, his mouth feeling as dry as a desert. He managed a nervous smile, hoping he didn’t come across as too foolish in front of this enchanting woman.

Aurora’s eyes lingered on Jason, and Eryndor chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eye. “Ah, it seems our young friend here is a bit smitten, Aurora,” he said, his voice tinged with amusement.

This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author's consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

Aurora’s eyebrows arched in surprise, and she turned to Eryndor. “Oh? And what makes you think that, dear Bard?”

Eryndor leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers. “Well, I’ve seen that look before—fascination mixed with a touch of terror. It’s usually reserved for those who stumble into a dragon’s lair uninvited.”

Jason’s face flushed even deeper, and he shot Eryndor a withering glance.

Aurora’s laughter was like a melody, sending shivers down Jason’s spine. Her eyes twinkled with mirth. “Don’t worry, I’m not going to bite… hard.”

Eryndor burst into hearty laughter, nearly spilling his tea. “Oh, Aurora, you are quite the character!”

Jason’s eyes darted between them, feeling like a rabbit caught in a trap. He tried to defend himself, but his words tumbled out incoherently.

Aurora leaned forward, her tone playful yet inquisitive. “Tell me, Jason, what do you think of our little camp? Is it to your liking?”

Jason snapped his gaze back to her, feeling lost in her piercing green eyes. “Uh, yeah… it’s… it’s amazing,” he stammered, his mind fogging up.

Eryndor gave Jason a friendly pat on the back. “Don’t worry, lad, you’ll get used to Aurora’s charms eventually. Or maybe not. Either way, it will be entertaining to watch.”

Aurora rolled her eyes playfully, but her smile remained—a gentle, knowing smile that made Jason’s heart race.

As the warmth of the tea spread through him, Jason couldn’t shake thoughts of the dark, vein-like markings under his skin. The HUD displayed:

Magic Affliction: Dark Markings (Unknown Effect)

He knew he needed to address this with someone who could help, and his gaze fell on Aurora, the sorcerer-in-training.

“We should talk to the healer,” Jason said, his voice tinged with concern. “I think I’m developing some… complications from using magic.”

Aurora’s eyes narrowed in curiosity. “Why would we need a healer for that?” she asked, her tone cautious.

Sensing the sudden shift in mood, Eryndor intervened with a charming smile. “Oh, Jason here is simply experiencing a bit of magic exhaustion—a common issue among fledgling mages. Nothing to worry about, I assure you, Aurora.”

Aurora’s skeptical gaze lingered on Jason. “I’ve never heard of magic exhaustion,” she said, her tone doubtful.

Eryndor’s smile widened, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “Ah, it’s a relatively rare condition, exclusive to those who channel magic in… creative ways. I’ve seen it before, and I’m confident the healer can assist.”

Jason shot Eryndor a grateful look, aware that the bard was spinning a tale. Magic exhaustion wasn’t the true cause of the dark markings, but he couldn’t reveal the truth just yet.

Aurora’s expression remained dubious, but she nodded. “Very well, let’s speak with the healer then. If Jason is indeed suffering from this… magic exhaustion, I’d like to learn more about it.”

As they prepared to leave for the healer’s tent, Eryndor cleared his throat with a mischievous glint in his eye. “Ah, Aurora, I’m afraid you can’t join us. You see, I’ve been working on a new spell, and I need your expertise to finish the final touches.”

Aurora’s brows furrowed, her eyes narrowing in skepticism. “A new spell, Bard? You know I’m still learning—”

“Exactly!” Eryndor exclaimed, his hands gesturing animatedly. “Your fresh perspective is precisely what I need. Besides, I’ve promised the healer a new tune in exchange for his services. He’s been pining for a decent melody to soothe his patients.”

Jason watched the exchange, unsure what to make of the bard’s sudden excuse. Aurora, however, seemed unconvinced.

“But, Bard, I’ve never seen you compose a spell without your lute,” she said, her voice laced with doubt.

Eryndor chuckled, patting the air with a reassuring hand. “Ah, my dear, this spell requires a different kind of harmony. The lute would only get in the way. Trust me, your input will be invaluable.”

Aurora’s gaze lingered on the bard, her expression a mix of curiosity and wariness. Finally, she nodded, though her eyes still seemed to say she wasn’t entirely convinced.

“Very well, Bard. I’ll help you with your spell. But don’t think you’re getting out of teaching me about magic exhaustion that easily,” she said, giving Jason a sympathetic glance.

Eryndor beamed, relieved. “Splendid! I knew I could count on you, Aurora. Jason, my friend, I’ll leave you in the healer’s capable hands. I’ll meet you back here later, once Aurora and I have worked out the final kinks in this spell.”

With that, the bard ushered Aurora out of the tent, leaving Jason