The next morning, Noona awoke with renewed determination.
She knew that if she didn't master the dragon's power soon, the mysterious foe from last night might return.
Carrying the dragon scale, she walked to a stream deep in the forest.
The clear water reflected the glowing tattoo on her arm.
Closing her eyes, she focused, merging her breath with the power within the scale.
"This power… will not be a burden. It will become a part of me."
Her training intensified. Waves of energy rippled through the stream.
The trees trembled around her, as if acknowledging the force she was unlocking.
As she practiced, light footsteps approached.
It was "Akin," a young man from a nearby village whom she had once saved.
"Noona… so this is where you are."
Startled at first, she relaxed when she realized it wasn't the shadowy foe.
Akin's eyes widened when he saw the dragon tattoo on her arm.
"That mark… You… you're the chosen one, aren't you?"
Noona froze, uncertain how to respond.
But in his eyes, she saw both fear and reverence.
He extended his hand.
"If you want… I can help you train. I've heard tales of this power before."
Noona hesitated, but deep down, she knew—friendship might be the strength she needed.
She nodded, accepting his offer.
That moment marked the beginning of training not in solitude,
but a journey shared through power and friendship—
a trial that would test both their hearts.