Infinite Paths: The Raging Phoenix

Rain noticed a particular aspect of the ice dragons' movements that struck him as unusual. Typically, in the aftermath of a large battle or conflict, creatures might flee en masse and travel much farther away from the site of the confrontation to seek safety or avoid further conflict until they can regroup. However, in this instance, the ice dragons' behavior didn't align with this expected pattern. Instead of scattering in a disorganized manner or fleeing far south, they seemed to be moving in a more organized and methodical fashion. They didn't travel as far as one might anticipate after such a battle. This behavior made Rain question their motivations and actions. Their seemingly coordinated movement and their choice to venture significantly farther south raised doubts in Rain's mind. He wondered whether their actions were deliberate and purposeful rather than a simple response to the end of a conflict. This curiosity led Rain to consider deeper reasons behind the dragons' behavior, sparking intrigue and prompting him to delve further into understanding their motives. "The sin of the ice dragons is pride… but they aren't being very prideful while running away… or are they?" Rain rubbed his chin thoughtfully. Rain had decided to leave the ice dragons and find the fire dragons, but maybe he wouldn't have much peace and quiet to do that… the ice dragons clearly were up to no good. "How is everyone?" Luana asked after Rain told them that he found everyone but completely scattered all over the world. "They are fine, busy, but fine…" Rain replied. "I am sorry, but regrouping now will be difficult, but at least Sealyn, Sears and the sea folk are going to soon return to their former land." "I hope that works for them, but I have the feeling that the ice dragons won't let things end like that," Meiro said while looking toward the sky. "Something big is going to happen again, and the dragons will use all of their cards to make sure that they won't suffer such massive losses again." Rain's feelings towards his grandparents' desire to help and their better state were good but a bit troublesome. While he appreciated their enthusiasm and willingness to help him, he also felt a sense of responsibility and concern for their safety. Despite their apparent vitality and readiness, Rain was hesitant to involve them directly in his missions. He understood that keeping them away from the potential dangers he faced was a way to safeguard them. Operating independently reduced the chances of exposing the entire group to unforeseen problems or threats that might arise during his quests. However, despite his decision to continue working alone for safety reasons, Rain still wanted to contribute to his grandparents' well-being. Therefore, he chose to assist them by utilizing his abilities, such as granting them the effects of the Parameter Boost. This gesture allowed him to support them indirectly without putting them in direct harm's way, and if something happened, they would have the means to protect themselves better. As one would expect, people frowned in surprise when they saw the notifications coming in… a lot of people recognized Rain thanks to the modifications he made before in the camp, so they assumed that he had done something once again. "You always come back full of surprises," Meiro said. "Even with this much, you think that is better if we don't engage in large-scale battles?" Meiro asked. "Yes, we suffered too many losses during the previous battle. We can't take any chances in a world like this," Rain said. "Still, I am making progress, so eventually, we will fight back. We just need to wait and keep sharpening our fangs for when the time comes." "I guess it is fine… I want to see everyone again, but if they are fine, then it is good…" Luana said and then sighed. "I am a bit concerned that they aren't that far away, and yet they don't take time to see us." "Well… the trip would take weeks for them, and there are other issues as well…" Rain forced a smile. "In any case, I need to get moving… I had other plans, but I will have to take a look at what the ice dragons are plotting." "Be careful out there… well, who am I kidding? I know that you will," Luana said and then hugged Rain tightly. Meiro tapped Rain's back as if he was trying to say once more not to carry the whole weight of the world on his shoulders, and he could tell that Rain understood the message. Rain nodded and quickly left the area. As Rain crossed the camp's barrier, he became even more aware of the necessity for a prolonged period of caution and restraint among all the diverse species inhabiting the world. He comprehended that the current circumstances demanded a strategy of lying low and patiently waiting for the right opportunity to counter the dragons. This approach was crucial for leveling the playing field against those creatures and their powers. However, Rain felt a lot of frustration because he believed that both the beast people and the magic people had not fully grasped this crucial strategy yet. Their failure to recognize the importance of stealth and surprise tactics seemed to bother Rain, as it was a critical aspect of combating the overwhelming might of the dragons. It was probably because of the past… Moreover, Rain understood their situation as somewhat peculiar and attributed their inability to adopt a more strategic approach to their decision-making processes. He saw elements of self-destructive behavior among these groups, possibly stemming from their unconventional choices and actions that led them down a path of potential detriment… because of the past as well. Despite his frustration, Rain recognized that the circumstances had complicated their situation. The decisions made by these groups had created a peculiar dynamic, influencing their behavior. The only thing he could do was to adapt and act based on it instead of complaining.