Rooted in Worry | Arius' First Battle: Rooted in Worry | Arius' First Battle - Chapter 1

'Where is she?' Arius wondered, growing worried. He knew Camille had important matters to attend to, but even then, they always had a meeting place afterward. Never, was she this late. 'Surely, she can't be in trouble. She's probably just running a little behind.' Even so, it wouldn't be long before nervousness took over, and Arius decided to search the nearby forests. Yet, as he walked along the forest floor, he noticed tiny sprouts growing as he walked. 'Oh no..' 

'The magic of Earth Dragons rests within you, my child. Learn to control it, for a dragon's power can easily take control of a mortal soul.'

Arius inhaled sharply, hoping to calm himself just enough to keep the plants at bay for a time. At least until finding Camille. Even so, the sprouts still bloomed no matter how much he tried. It was then he noticed something shiny covering parts of the forest floor. Upon further inspection, it appeared to be some type of slime that fertilized the forest all around. 'Maybe in combination with my power, it's what's making the plants grow out of control.' 

It was then Arius heard a rustling of leaves. Could it be her? No. It seemed that instead, Arius had stumbled upon a den of slimes! Seeing an intruder, it was only natural for the slime to engage in combat; sending watery slime attacks his way. As he wiped some of the slime away, the green goo immediately became overwhelmed with intertwining leaves as Arius' power consumed it. At least he wouldn't have to worry so much about staying a slimy mess. Though it was clear he was not welcomed within the den of slimes. 'I need to keep it at bay, somehow.' 

It was then Arius began to conjure roots to encase the slime, making a root orb around it. Uncertain if the slime could burn through the roots or not, Arius wished not to take any chances. As soon as it seemed to be fully encased, he'd quickly take his leave. 

'You carry the powers of life with you. Cherish it as much as you should cherish all life.' 

Despite a strange trap, the slime wouldn't be left in misery, as Arius kept these words in mind. From the circle of roots, bits of glowing pollen would float around and inside it, creating a calming environment within. And, once he left, the roots would open and bloom into something else, freeing the slime after some time after he left.