Chapter 2
Chapter 2
A MEETING WITH MAJESTY
Nearly ten years had passed since the centaurs found the boy in the middle of the Forbidden Forest, and a lot had changed. Despite their initial apprehension, Tyro had seamlessly integrated into the herd, surpassing their expectations. Despite his difference, he had become an irreplaceable member of the herd.
As the rising sun gently peeked through the foliage, Tyro awakened to the familiar rustlinf of leaves and the sweet melodies of birdsong.
He stretched his limbs, feeling the cool, velvety moss against his back. Rising to his feet, he grasped his trusty bow, knowing that today, like every other day spent with the centaurs, held endless possibilities for exploration and discovery. He was truly happy.
Always the adventurer, Tyro crept steadily past the sleeping figures of the centaurs around him, leaving them to their rest. Their heavy breaths masking the sound of his bare, callused feet on the rocky dirt of the forest floor.
As Tyro ventured deeper into the heart of the forest, the scent of damp earth and fresh foliage filled his nostrils. The sunlight filtered through the dense canopy above, casting dappled shadows on the ground. The forest was alive with the soft murmurs of the wind and the occasional rustle of small creatures scurrying about. With every step, Tyro felt a sense of anticipation building within him. He wondered what new wonders the forest would reveal to him today.
Suddenly, a flash of movement caught his eye. He froze, his senses on high alert. He peered through the underbrush, trying to catch another glimpse of whatever had caught his attention.
And there it was—a creature of pure beauty standing amidst a clearing. Its coat was as white as freshly-fallen snow, and its mane and tail shimmered like spun silver. The unicorn grazed peacefully on the lush grass, its graceful movements captivating Tyro.
Curiosity and awe filled Tyro's heart as he approached the unicorn slowly, his steps cautious so as not to startle the magnificent creature. The unicorn raised its regal head, its eyes meeting Tyro's with caution and curiosity. There was a moment of unspoken understanding between them.
The boy bowed deeply, his long hair brushing the ground. "I am Tyro," he introduced, his voice reverent. "It is an honor to be in your presence."
The fantastic beast inclined its head in acknowledgement, taking a measured step toward the boy.
Tyro's breath caught in his throat as he extended his hand, offering the unicorn a gentle touch. The unicorn's velvety nose brushed against his palm, and he felt a surge of warmth spread through his bare chest. Peace, grace.
As Tyro stood there, basking in the presence of the unicorn, he realized the profound significance of this encounter. The centaurs had taught him about the forest's inhabitants, but nothing could have prepared him to experience it firsthand.
With a final nudge from the unicorn's nose, as if bidding him farewell, the beast turned, trotting off into the forest. Tyro watched it leave, his heart filled with gratitude. He knew he would carry this encounter with him always.
And so, Tyro retraced his steps, making his way back to the centaur herd. As he approached, he couldn't help but smile, knowing that he had experienced something extraordinary. He knew that this could only be the beginning of something marvelous.