The Dragon's Human Form

A cold dread settled in Ash's chest. The idea that his own power, the very thing he'd hoped would help him escape this trapped reality, could become the instrument of its destruction—and his own—was terrifying.

It was a potential consequence he had never considered, far beyond the scope of any in-game death or setback.

Around him, his friends shifted uneasily, their faces reflecting various degrees of alarm, acknowledging the gravity of the situation.

Maya's breath came slightly quicker, a shallow gasp, though her hand remained firm on his arm.

Ash knew he had no other choice. This was a path laid out for him, not by a quest marker, but by a higher authority, by the very creators of this world. He had to take it.

"I will go with you," Ash said, solidifying his decision in the face of immense uncertainty.

Maya inhaled sharply, a protest forming on her lips, her grip on his arm tightening further. "Ash—"