Chapter 147: Worthy

The cave entrance loomed before them, a dark hollow that stretched deep into the earth. Ashen hesitated, glancing down at the Dragon Slayer strapped across his back. Its weight, both literal and metaphorical, seemed to grow heavier with every step he took. The power of the weapon was immense—too immense for him alone. The blade pulsed faintly, as if sensing his reluctance.

He had to make a decision. He couldn't wield this weapon effectively, and then there was Pyro—loyal, skilled, and experienced in heavy weaponry. The thought had been nagging at him since they had left the fortress. The Dragon Slayer wasn't meant for him, but for Pyro.

They entered the cave, the chill of the air inside pressing against their skin. Pyro dropped his pack to the ground, his body visibly sagging from exhaustion. They hadn't spoken much since their encounter with the Ogre, both lost in their own thoughts.