A Dragon's Heartache

Darkness...

Just pure, pitch-black, silent darkness...

Alister found himself hovering in a black void as a golden, spectral figure.

The warm, bright glow emanating from his body didn't help him discern anything around him—not that there seemed to be anything to begin with.

"What is this... Where am I?" Alister murmured, turning slowly as his eyes scanned the endless void.

Suddenly, he felt his feet touch down on what seemed like water, though he didn't sink.

It was as if the water itself recognized his presence and solidified beneath him.

Two golden orbs of light appeared ahead, gradually revealing a spectral figure with humanoid form and draconic features.

The figure's cold, distant gaze locked onto Alister, exuding an aura of authority.

Alister narrowed his eyes, his voice calm yet sharp. "You brought me here, didn't you? Who are you? What do you want?"