LightReader

Chapter 8 - The Journey Begins (continued):

The Whimbrel Forest was no ordinary woodland — it was a living ecosystem of ancient magic, where every leaf and every stone seemed to contain a fragment of vibrant energy. As I approached the entrance, I felt the air shift: the temperature dropped a few degrees, and the faint hum of magic wrapped around me like an invisible cloak.

I walked along narrow trails, covered in twisted roots and glowing flowers that shimmered in soft shades of blue and green. The light filtered through the canopy in a diffuse way, creating a constant play of dancing shadows.

Soon, my eyes caught the agile movement of tiny winged creatures made of pure light — shimmering dragonflies that looked like fragments of captured stars floating in the air. They flew in groups, moving like a silent ballet, and I knew I couldn't capture just one. I needed at least ten to ensure the reproduction and vitality of the group.

Carefully, I conjured a translucent sphere of energy, large enough to contain the group, and slowly guided the creatures inside. They resisted at first, their lights flickering intensely, but soon they calmed. The magic of the sphere provided a familiar environment — a small portion of the forest where they were used to living.

Meanwhile, my research continued. I found a rare plant called the "Lumen Leaf," whose leaves changed color depending on the light, absorbing and storing mana for medicinal use. Taking just one sprout would be useless; to preserve its genetics and allow it to thrive, I had to gather dozens of seedlings, making sure to keep their roots intact.

The journey was not without dangers. One of the tensest moments happened when, distracted, I tripped over a root covered in ancient runes. Immediately, a magical alarm was triggered — a deep roar echoed through the forest, alerting its inhabitants.

Within seconds, a majestic creature emerged from the shadows: a rat-dragon, smaller than a dog, with iridescent fur and glowing eyes that seemed to contain the cosmos. Its sharp claws scratched the ground, and a faint blue glow emanated from its body.

I knew trying to capture it would be risky — the creature seemed not only fierce but intelligent and territorial. I decided to respect its freedom and leave it alone. Not all species were meant to inhabit my island — at least, not yet.

Continuing, I found a clearing where a group of ethereal deer moved with grace and harmony, their coats reflecting light with a silvery-blue glow. Aware that their survival depended on the group, I cast a delicate charm to create an invisible barrier, enough to keep them calm.

With great patience, I guided the herd into containment spheres I conjured. It took hours of silent, meticulous work, making sure no creature was harmed or stressed.

Returning to the Globe, transporting entire groups demanded all my knowledge. Each sphere needed additional spells to maintain internal life stability. I reinforced the enchantments with layers of protection and mana regulators.

Upon arrival, I tended to the adaptation of these creatures and plants to the controlled climate. I adjusted temperature, humidity, and light to simulate their natural environment, all through charms that manipulated the Globe's microclimate.

The animals were released into magical habitats I precisely recreated using spells that mimicked forests, rivers, and fields, respecting each species' specific needs.

I watched them with a mix of fascination and responsibility — knowing the ecosystem's balance depended on my ability to maintain these conditions steady.

At the end of the first month of travels, the Globe was beginning to come alive. The whispering of ethereal deer, the luminous tinkling of winged creatures, and the vibrant green of the Lumen Leaves filled the space with invigorating energy.

The awareness of what I was creating completely overwhelmed me: a new world, a magical refuge, a legacy for the future.

More Chapters