The village market bustled with life, alive with the chatter of merchants and villagers bartering over goods. Sunlight gleamed off polished fruits and colorful fabrics, while the aroma of roasted meats and baked bread filled the air.

At the edge of the market, a shimmering portal crackled into existence, rippling like molten glass. From the swirling energy stepped Glomi Belladonna, a sentient slime in human-like form. Her vibrant purple body shimmered in the sunlight, her witch's hat—adorned with glowing stars—tilted slightly as she adjusted it.

Trailing behind her was Azzy, her sleek black dog, his nose twitching as he sniffed at the air. He barked and wagged his tail, bounding excitedly into the bustling crowd.

Glomi: adjusting her hat with a sigh "Why do I always get stuck with the boring errands? I wanted to study spell-crafting with Uncle Henry, not... this."

She pulled out a crumpled shopping list, her semi-liquid fingers crinkling the paper as she glanced at the items. Her other hand jingled a nearly empty coin pouch.

Glomi: grumbling "And of course, we're on a budget. Great. Just great."

Azzy barked again, wagging his tail as if encouraging her to make the best of it. Glomi rolled her eyes but bent down to scratch his ears.

Glomi: "At least you're easy to please."

She moved through the market, her semi-liquid form making it easy to maneuver through the crowd. With practiced ease, she stretched an arm to grab a distant herb bundle while her other hand inspected a bundle of fruits. She haggled over prices, stuffing items into her bag as she went.

But as she debated over an overpriced loaf of bread, a sharp scream shattered the peaceful market.

Glomi's head snapped up, her glowing eyes narrowing as she spotted a crowd forming near the town hall. Curious, she left her shopping behind and pushed through the growing throng of villagers.

At the heart of the commotion stood Dr. Livia Marlen, a striking woman with a commanding presence. Her green hair was pulled into a sleek ponytail, and a gold top hat perched atop her head glinted in the sunlight. A glowing brooch pulsed faintly against her lab coat, which was layered over a tailored purple skirt that accentuated her thick thighs. Heart-shaped purple eyes gleamed behind her glasses as she held a delicate but intricate tool in one hand.

Dr. Marlen gestured toward a large, glowing artifact at the center of the hall—a relic that pulsed with a steady, hypnotic light.

Dr. Marlen: "Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you the culmination of years of research—the Relic of Light and Darkness! This artifact powers the revolutionary Exo-Armor, a tool that will turn the tide in our fight against the forces threatening our world!"

Gasps rippled through the crowd as Dr. Marlen's confident voice carried over the murmurs. She pointed to the glowing relic, its light intensifying.

Dr. Marlen: "This relic isn't just a tool of power—it's a beacon of hope. But only the bravest and strongest can unlock its potential!"

Before she could continue, a guttural roar ripped through the air, silencing the hall.

Villager: panicked "Monsters! They're attacking!"

The hall doors burst open as Shadowlings poured into the market. Their jagged, obsidian-like bodies gleamed as their glowing red eyes scanned the room hungrily. Armed with crude weapons, they began slashing through stalls, scattering villagers in every direction.

Dr. Marlen stumbled back, her calm demeanor slipping for a moment.

Dr. Marlen: alarmed "They've come for the relic!"

Amid the chaos, Glomi stepped forward, her body tensing as her slime-like form began to ripple with faint magical energy. Azzy growled, standing protectively at her side.

Glomi: grinning "Guess I'm getting some magic practice after all. Azzy, let's show them what we've got!"

A Shadowling lunged at her, claws raised. Glomi ducked, her body bending unnaturally as she summoned a molten orb of slime in her palm. With a flick of her wrist, the glowing orb shot forward, striking the creature squarely in the chest. It screeched and dissolved into smoke.

Two more charged at her, their claws gleaming. Glomi stretched her body upward, twisting mid-air to dodge their strikes. She retaliated with a spinning kick, her slime form elongating to enhance the blow. The first Shadowling flew backward, crashing into a stack of crates.

The second slashed at her with a jagged blade, but it passed harmlessly through her semi-liquid form. Glomi retaliated by morphing her arm into a whip-like tendril, lashing it around the creature's legs and slamming it into the ground.

Glomi: she mocks with a smirk "You guys need a better plan."

As more Shadowlings swarmed her, Glomi narrowed her eyes. She pressed her hands to the ground, sending a ripple of molten slime outward. The wave surged forward, engulfing the Shadowlings in its path. Their forms sizzled and dissolved into black smoke.

Azzy barked sharply, pointing her attention to the town hall. Glomi nodded.

Glomi: "We need to finish this before they hurt anyone else."

With a deep breath, Glomi summoned a massive ball of molten energy, her slime-like body glowing brightly as she hurled it into the remaining Shadowlings. The orb exploded on impact, reducing the creatures to ash.

The market fell silent, villagers peeking out from hiding spots as the threat dissipated. Glomi dusted her hands off and turned to Azzy, who barked approvingly.

Suddenly, she stumbled, clutching her chest as a strange sensation overtook her—a deep pull from somewhere beyond the village.

????: distant, echoing "Come... to me... The flames await..."

Glomi froze, her glowing eyes flickering as the mysterious voice grew louder in her mind.

Azzy: "Woof!"

Glomi: "I don't know what that was, but I'm not ignoring it. Let's go."

She bolted toward the forest at the edge of the village, the pull guiding her every step.

Dr. Marlen, still clutching her tool, stared after her in shock. Her gaze flicked between the ruined Shadowlings and the fleeing slime witch.

Dr. Marlen: she mutters to herself "She... she's connected to the relic."

Adjusting her glasses, Dr. Marlen gathered her tools and took off after Glomi and Azzy, her coat billowing behind her.

The forest grew denser as they ventured deeper, the towering trees forming an almost impenetrable canopy. Shafts of dappled sunlight danced across the mossy ground, but the air was thick and humid, clinging to Glomi's semi-liquid skin. Ahead, Azzy trotted confidently, his tail wagging and nose twitching as he barked at every rustle of the leaves.

The pull in Glomi's chest had grown into an insistent, fiery ache. It wasn't just a vague feeling anymore—it was a voice, faint and whispering just beyond her hearing.

Glomi: muttering "Alright, whatever you are, I'm coming. No need to yell..."

Behind her, hurried footsteps and snapping twigs made her pause. Glancing over her shoulder, she narrowed her molten yellow eyes.

Glomi: dryly as she facepalms "If that's another enemy, I swear to all that is holy—"

Her words faltered as a familiar figure stumbled into view. Dr. Livia Marlen tripped over an exposed root with a muffled yelp, crashing face-first into the dirt.

The scientist groaned, pushing herself up with trembling hands. Her pristine lab coat was now streaked with mud, her gold top hat tilted at a ridiculous angle, and her glasses hung askew on her nose. Clutched tightly in her hands was a bulky, glowing device, its intricate dials casting faint patterns of light on her flushed face.

Azzy barked, running over to sniff at her.

Dr. Marlen: panting "W-Wait! Please, hold on! I just—just need a moment..."

She tried brushing dirt off her skirt, but her frantic motions only spread it around. Attempting to stand, her foot slipped again, and she landed back on her knees with a defeated groan.

Glomi crossed her arms, watching with a smirk.

Glomi: "Seriously, Doc? You followed me all the way out here for this?"

Dr. Marlen's face turned a deep shade of red as she adjusted her glasses, hugging the device protectively to her chest.

Dr. Marlen: "I... I needed to see for myself. You don't understand how important this is."

Glomi tilted her head, her witch's hat shifting slightly.

Glomi: smirking "That your new toy?"

Dr. Marlen gasped, clutching the device as if Glomi might snatch it away.

Dr. Marlen: "It's not a toy! This is the Relic Driver Prototype—a revolutionary piece of technology capable of harnessing and amplifying the energy of relics—"

Her impassioned explanation was cut short as she stepped forward and promptly tripped on another root. With a startled cry, she twisted her ankle and fell hard to the ground.

Dr. Marlen: "Ow—! Oh no..."

She winced, clutching her ankle, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

Glomi sighed, walking over and crouching beside her.

Glomi: "This forest is really out to get you, huh?"

Azzy barked again, nuzzling the scientist's leg as if to comfort her. Without hesitation, Glomi scooped her up in one fluid motion, cradling her bridal-style as her semi-liquid form shifted to support the extra weight.

Dr. Marlen: wide-eyed as she blushes a bit "W-Wait—what are you—?!"

Glomi grinned, standing effortlessly.

Glomi: "You're way too clumsy to walk. Guess I'll carry you. Relax, Doc."

Dr. Marlen's face turned an even brighter shade of red, her heart-shaped pupils dilating as she stammered.

Dr. Marlen: "I—I can manage! Really—!"

Glomi: (teasing) "Oh yeah? Because your ankle says otherwise. Don't fight it. You're in good hands."

Dr. Marlen froze, gripping Glomi's shoulder for balance. Her voice softened, losing its earlier protest.

Dr. Marlen: quietly "...Thank you."

Glomi chuckled, her tone playful.

Glomi: "You're kinda cute when you're flustered, y'know that?"

Dr. Marlen's blush deepened further, and she quickly averted her gaze, pretending to focus on the forest ahead.

Dr. Marlen: mutters "I'm not flustered..."

Azzy barked, running circles around them as they continued. Glomi glanced at the glowing device in Dr. Marlen's hands.

Glomi: "So, this 'Relic Driver,' huh? What's it do? Besides make you trip over every root in sight."

Dr. Marlen: snapping back "It's not for tripping! It's an advanced tool designed to sync with the energy of relics. I... I thought you might be able to use it."

Glomi raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

Glomi: "Me? Why?"

Dr. Marlen hesitated, her heart-shaped pupils glinting faintly.

Dr. Marlen: "The way you fought the Shadowlings... your magic... it resonated with the relic's energy in ways I've never seen before. If I'm right, the Relic Driver could help you unlock that connection fully. You might even be able to... transform."

Glomi's molten-yellow eyes sparkled with curiosity.

Glomi: "Transform, huh? Sounds fun. But why didn't you just ask me this back at the village?"

Dr. Marlen: "Would you have listened?"

Glomi: she is grinning ear to ear "Touché."

The conversation halted as they emerged into a clearing. The air grew warmer, charged with a faint hum of power. The pull in Glomi's chest blazed now, no longer a whisper but a roar.

Voice: "Come... the flames await you..."

Glomi's expression hardened, her grip on Dr. Marlen tightening slightly.

Glomi: "We're close."

Azzy barked in agreement, dashing ahead toward the ruins. At the center of the clearing, ancient stone pillars glowed with a crimson light. Resting atop a weathered pedestal was the Guiding Flames, its fiery aura pulsating in time with Glomi's heartbeat.

Dr. Marlen: the heart in her eyes turned into stars "The Guiding Flames... it's even more incredible than I imagined."

Glomi set Dr. Marlen down gently on a mossy stone, her focus locked on the relic. Azzy stood guard as Glomi stepped forward, the firelight reflecting in her molten eyes.

Glomi: As she smirks she steps forward "Guess it's time to see what this thing wants."

The forest clearing was bathed in a faint crimson glow, the air warm and charged with energy. At its center stood an ancient pedestal, cradling the Guiding Flames—a short sword, its blade rusty and worn, its hilt wrapped in faded cloth. Faint embers flickered along its edge, as if caught between slumber and wakefulness.

Glomi approached cautiously, her molten yellow eyes narrowing as she studied the weapon. The pull in her chest was overwhelming now, almost deafening, but as she stood before the relic, she hesitated.

Dr. Marlen shuffled nervously behind her, clutching the Relic Driver Prototype to her chest like a shield. Her gold top hat was slightly askew, and her glasses were fogged from the humid air.

Dr. Marlen: muttering "Th-this is it... the Guiding Flames... I-I can't believe we actually found it..."

Azzy sniffed around the pedestal, wagging his tail and barking at the glowing runes etched into the stone.

Glomi glanced back at the doctor, tilting her head.

Glomi: curious "You okay back there, Doc? You're acting like it's about to bite you."

Dr. Marlen: fidgeting "I-I'm fine! It's just... this is a legendary relic. The energy here is... it's a lot to process, okay?"

Glomi smirked, turning her attention back to the sword.

Glomi: teasing "You're kinda cute when you're flustered, y'know that?"

Dr. Marlen's face turned beet red, and she adjusted her glasses furiously, looking anywhere but at Glomi.

Dr. Marlen: stammering "I-I'm not flustered! I'm just... focused! On... on the relic!"

Glomi chuckled softly before stepping closer to the pedestal. The warmth radiating from the sword seemed to call her forward, urging her to take it. She reached out slowly, her fingers brushing the worn hilt.

But nothing happened.

The embers flickered faintly, then dimmed, and the warmth in the air faded slightly. Glomi frowned, gripping the hilt more firmly and giving it a gentle tug. The sword barely shifted, its weight surprisingly heavy for its size.

Glomi: confused "Uh... is this thing broken? It's not doing anything."

Dr. Marlen hurried forward, her heels clicking against the stone as she knelt beside the pedestal. She peered at the runes, muttering to herself as she adjusted her glasses.

Dr. Marlen: anxiously "N-no, it's not broken. Relics like this... they're dormant until awakened. They need... something. A spark. A test of some kind."

Glomi tilted her head, still holding the hilt.

Glomi: "A test, huh? Like what? Do I need to say magic words or something?"

Dr. Marlen: flustered "I—I don't know! The records are vague on specifics! But relics usually respond to acts of courage, or... or something that proves you're worthy of their power."

Glomi sighed, letting go of the hilt and stepping back.

Glomi: grumbling "Great. A sword with trust issues. Just my luck."

Dr. Marlen gave her an apologetic look, clutching the Relic Driver tightly.

Dr. Marlen: nervously "M-maybe it's just not the right time yet! Or maybe we need more data! If we bring the sword back to my lab, I can study it further. There's got to be a way to wake it up."

Glomi looked at the sword again, the faint embers barely visible now. The pull in her chest had quieted to a soft hum, almost as if the relic itself were waiting.

Glomi: softly "Yeah... maybe you're right."

Dr. Marlen adjusted her glasses, a mix of nervousness and determination flickering in her heart-shaped pupils.

Dr. Marlen: trying to sound confident "R-right! We just need to take a more... scientific approach. Back at the lab, I have tools, charts, formulas... w-we'll figure it out!"

Glomi couldn't help but smile at the doctor's awkward enthusiasm.

Glomi: grinning "You're kinda adorable when you get all science-y, you know that?"

Dr. Marlen froze, her face turning an even brighter shade of pink. She opened her mouth to protest but quickly shut it, opting to hide her face behind the glowing Relic Driver instead.

Dr. Marlen: muttering "...We should get going."

Glomi laughed softly, patting Azzy on the head as he barked and wagged his tail.

Glomi: "Alright, Doc. Lead the way. Let's figure this thing out."

With the sword now in Glomi's possession, the three made their way back through the forest, the relic's faint hum a constant presence in the back of Glomi's mind.

The forest was quieter now, the earlier tension from the ruins replaced with an uneasy calm that clung to the air like mist. Glomi carried Dr. Marlen effortlessly in her semi-liquid arms, her form shifting slightly with each step to ensure a steady grip. The witch's molten yellow eyes swept over their surroundings, alert for any lingering threats. She couldn't shake the feeling that, even in the absence of immediate danger, they were being watched.

Dr. Marlen clutched the Guiding Flame and the Relic Driver tightly to her chest, her slim fingers trembling slightly. The short sword looked pitiful in the fading daylight—a chipped, rusty blade with a hilt worn smooth by time. But there was something about it, a quiet, pulsing energy that made her hesitant to let go.

Above them, the canopy grew denser, casting long shadows over the forest floor. The patches of golden sunlight that filtered through the leaves illuminated the mossy ground in broken patterns, almost as if the earth itself were dappled with firelight. Azzy trotted ahead, his black fur a dark blur against the green underbrush. His nose was to the ground, his tail wagging as he sniffed out a clear path for his companions.

Glomi adjusted her grip, her fluid arms rippling with ease as she shifted Dr. Marlen to a more comfortable position.

Glomi: grinning "You know, Doc, if you'd just asked nicely, I might've carried you sooner. All this tripping and falling? Seems like a roundabout way to get my attention."

Dr. Marlen's face turned crimson, her heart-shaped pupils dilating in a mixture of embarrassment and flustered indignation. She adjusted her glasses with one hand, while the other gripped the relic and device even tighter.

Dr. Marlen: stammering "I—I wasn't trying to get your attention! My ankle—well—you didn't have to—"

Glomi: interrupting, smirking "Relax, Doc. I'm just messing with you. You're lighter than I thought you'd be, anyway. Guess all those gadgets you lug around don't weigh as much as they look."

Dr. Marlen: muttering "I-I'm not sure that's a compliment..."

Despite her protest, she couldn't deny the sense of security she felt in Glomi's arms. There was something comforting about the way the witch moved—confident, unhurried, like the weight of the world couldn't faze her. It was a stark contrast to the jittery, chaotic energy of Dr. Marlen's own thoughts.

Azzy barked ahead, his tail wagging furiously as he pounced on a cluster of ferns. The rustling leaves and distant chirping of birds filled the air, but the atmosphere remained heavy, as if the forest itself were holding its breath.

Glomi glanced down at the relic in Dr. Marlen's lap. The Guiding Flame was dull and lifeless in appearance, its once-proud blade reduced to a relic of forgotten glory.

Glomi: raising an eyebrow "So, this is it, huh? The big, legendary relic that called me here. Not exactly screaming 'chosen one' material."

Dr. Marlen's expression softened, her fingers brushing over the sword's rough surface.

Dr. Marlen: "It's more than it seems. Relics like this... they don't reveal their true potential easily. They're ancient, temperamental. The fact that it called to you at all means it sees something in you."

Glomi's molten eyes flickered, her expression skeptical but intrigued.

Glomi: "Sees something in me? That's a bit dramatic. It's just a rusty old sword."

Dr. Marlen shook her head, her gaze fixed on the blade.

Dr. Marlen: "It's not just a sword. Relics like the Guiding Flame are tied to the very essence of the elements. They don't bond with just anyone. They choose. And this one... it chose you."

Glomi: smirking "Well, I can't blame it. I am pretty amazing."

Dr. Marlen let out a small, exasperated laugh despite herself.

Dr. Marlen: (gently) "It's more than that, Glomi. When you fought those Shadowlings, your magic... it resonated with the relic's energy in a way I've never seen before. You're special, whether you like it or not."

At the mention of the Shadowlings, Glomi's smirk faded. Her molten yellow eyes dimmed slightly, the glow within them softening.

Glomi: "Speaking of those things... what's their deal? I've never seen monsters like that before. Not around here, anyway."

Dr. Marlen adjusted her glasses, the faint glow of the Relic Driver reflecting off the lenses. Her voice lowered, tinged with frustration and a deep weariness that seemed to weigh heavily on her shoulders.

Dr. Marlen: "They've been around for years now. At first, they were just strange creatures in the wilds—things people dismissed as oddities. But then the attacks started. Villages burned. Families destroyed. And no one could figure out where they were coming from, or why."

Glomi's jaw tightened, her molten form rippling faintly with agitation.

Glomi: "So why hasn't anyone done something about them? The kingdoms, the armies—what are they doing?"

Dr. Marlen let out a bitter sigh, her fingers gripping the Relic Driver more tightly.

Dr. Marlen: "The kingdoms are too divided. They're too focused on protecting their own borders to work together. Every time one of them tries to mount a defense, the Shadowlings strike somewhere else. It's like they know exactly how to keep everyone isolated, afraid."

Glomi frowned, her gaze hardening as she stared straight ahead.

Glomi: "So they're just letting people suffer. Letting these things run wild."

Dr. Marlen: "It's not that simple. No one knows how to stop them. Every time we think we've made progress, they adapt. That's why I created the Relic Driver. If we can harness the power of the relics—your power—we might stand a chance."

The weight of her words hung in the air, heavy and oppressive. Glomi glanced down at the rusty blade again, the faint hum of its energy resonating in her chest.

Glomi: quietly, muttering "So that's why Dad sent me here..."

Dr. Marlen's ears perked up slightly at the comment, her expression curious, but she didn't press the issue. She simply adjusted her grip on the Relic Driver, her mind already racing with calculations and ideas.

Dr. Marlen: (softly) "And now, we have a real shot."

The trees began to thin, the warm glow of the village lights emerging ahead. The faint sounds of activity drifted toward them—laughter, clinking dishes, and the occasional call of merchants packing up for the night.

Glomi stepped into the clearing, her pace steady, her mind racing with unspoken thoughts. Soon they made it to the lab which the doctor unlocked the door.

The lab was a cluttered wonderland of whirring contraptions, glowing tubes, and stacks of parchment littered with intricate diagrams. The walls were lined with shelves holding everything from strange artifacts to bubbling vials of unknown liquids. The faint hum of machinery mixed with the gentle clink of glassware, creating an almost rhythmic melody of invention.

Glomi stepped inside, her molten yellow eyes scanning the space with mild amusement. Dr. Marlen's lab was as chaotic as the scientist herself. She smirked and turned toward the desk at the far end, where a large computer screen flickered with streams of data.

Dr. Marlen: half-heartedly, flustered "Just set me anywhere! The stool is fine, or the cot—"

Glomi ignored her protests, carrying the doctor to her rolling computer chair and placing her down with surprising gentleness.

Glomi: teasing "Anywhere? Alright, but you're lucky I didn't drop you on the floor. This looks expensive."

Dr. Marlen adjusted her glasses, the blush still lingering on her cheeks. She winced slightly as her injured ankle shifted, but before she could say anything, Glomi crouched in front of her. The slime witch reached out, her semi-liquid fingers glowing faintly as a patch of shimmering purple slime formed in her palm.

Glomi: calmly "Hold still, Doc. This'll speed things up."

Dr. Marlen froze, her heart-shaped pupils wide as Glomi carefully wrapped the healing slime around her ankle. The substance clung snugly, its glow pulsing softly like a living thing. Almost immediately, a soothing coolness seeped into the injured area.

Dr. Marlen: hesitant, amazed "W-What is that?"

Glomi: (grinning) "Just a little trick of mine. Helps with cuts and bruises. Should make that sprain feel better in no time."

Dr. Marlen stared at the slime with a mix of awe and curiosity, but her attention quickly shifted as she remembered why they'd come back to the lab. Her gaze darted to the Guiding Flame and the Relic Driver on the nearby desk.

Dr. Marlen: focused "Thank you, but I need to run some tests. The connection between you and the relic... it's like nothing I've ever seen."

Glomi stood and leaned casually against the desk, watching as the scientist reached for a small scanner—a handheld device that buzzed faintly as she waved it over the rusty blade and then over Glomi herself. The computer screen lit up with a series of complex graphs and energy readings.

Glomi: "So, Doc, where'd you get all this fancy stuff? Not exactly the kind of gear you find lying around in a quiet little village."

Dr. Marlen: absently, focused on the screen "I'm funded by the Adventuring Guild and the royal family. They support my research and provide me with the tools I need to study the relics in the field."

Glomi raised an eyebrow, her molten eyes glinting with interest.

Glomi: "The royal family, huh? Must've cost them a fortune to get all this. They just let you run wild with it?"

Dr. Marlen: nodding, distracted "Well, not exactly. I report my findings regularly. They're very interested in relic technology, especially since the Shadowlings appeared. So far, though..."

Her voice trailed off as her heart-shaped pupils narrowed in frustration. She set the scanner down and adjusted the Relic Driver, her fingers dancing over the dials with precision.

Dr. Marlen: sighing "So far, no one has been able to bond with the relics enough to use the morpher. Every candidate has failed the synchronization tests."

Glomi crossed her arms, her curiosity deepening.

Glomi: "And you think I'm different?"

Dr. Marlen: "You are different. The Guiding Flame didn't just call to you—it bonded with you instantly. That's something I've never seen before. You're not just compatible with the relic; you're... perfect for it."

Glomi tilted her head, her smirk softening as she processed the weight of the doctor's words.

Glomi: "Perfect, huh? Well, guess that makes me your star pupil."

Dr. Marlen: blushing "It's not about—! I mean, this is serious, Glomi. If we can unlock the full potential of the relics, we might actually have a chance against the Shadowlings."

Glomi's expression darkened slightly, her molten eyes flickering like dying embers. She glanced at the rusty short sword on the desk, the faint hum of its energy stirring something deep within her chest.

Glomi: (quietly) "Yeah... someone's gotta do something about them."

Azzy barked from his spot near the door, snapping the two women out of their thoughts. Dr. Marlen straightened in her chair, adjusting her glasses with a newfound determination.

Dr. Marlen: "First things first, we need to run a synchronization test. Put the morpher on."

Glomi eyed the Relic Driver with mild skepticism but shrugged and took it. The device was bulkier than it looked, its metallic surface etched with intricate patterns that glowed faintly as she fastened it to her wrist. The moment it clicked into place, a pulse of energy rippled through her, making her liquid-like form shimmer briefly.

Glomi: (grinning) "Not bad. Got a good weight to it."

Dr. Marlen's eyes lit up with excitement as she adjusted the settings on her computer, the screen displaying a new set of readings.

Dr. Marlen: "The synchronization rate is incredible... You're not just compatible, Glomi. You're meant for this."

Glomi leaned against the desk, her smirk returning as she watched the doctor work.

Glomi: teasing "You're really into this, huh? Don't burn yourself out, Doc."

Dr. Marlen: blushing "I-I'm just... I've waited so long for this breakthrough. This could change everything."

Glomi chuckled, her molten eyes softening as she looked at the scientist. Despite her flustered demeanor, there was an undeniable passion in Dr. Marlen's every movement—a fire that reminded Glomi of the relic itself.

Glomi: softly "Guess we'll find out if I'm as perfect as you say."

Dr. Marlen glanced up, her heart-shaped pupils glinting with determination.

Dr. Marlen: "We will. And when we do, you'll be the first Relic Ranger the world has ever seen."

Soon the ground trembled with another violent crash, sending tools and gadgets tumbling from their shelves in Dr. Marlen's lab. Sparks sputtered from a cluster of machines near the wall as the doctor instinctively braced herself on the computer desk. Glomi steadied her balance, the Guiding Flame still clutched tightly in her semi-liquid grip, its surface cool and rusted but pulsating faintly, as if it sensed the chaos outside.

Dr. Marlen: panicked "What now?! That sounded too close!"

Glomi didn't respond. Her molten yellow eyes darted to the lab window, narrowing at the plume of smoke rising from the village square. Without hesitation, she turned on her heel toward the door.

Dr. Marlen: "Wait! What are you doing?"

Glomi: without looking back "Stay here, Doc. I've got this."

She bolted out the door, her semi-liquid body rippling as she moved with fluid speed. The air outside was heavy with smoke and heat, and the once-bustling village square was now a scene of panic and destruction. Market stalls were engulfed in flames, their colorful banners reduced to ash. Villagers screamed, clutching their loved ones as they fled from the chaos.

The lab door slammed shut behind Glomi as she sprinted into the chaos. Smoke filled the air, thick and acrid, stinging her molten eyes. She could hear the cries of terrified villagers and the crackling roar of flames consuming everything in sight. The once-lively marketplace was now a battlefield. Stalls were reduced to ash, cobblestones scorched black, and the villagers scattered like leaves in the wind.

At the heart of it all stood a monstrous figure—a living furnace of rage and destruction. The fire monster towered over the square, its molten-rock body pulsing with heat. Its jagged mouth curled into a cruel grin as it raised one fiery arm, unleashing a wave of fire that ripped through the air. Screams echoed as the flames consumed yet another stall, sending debris raining down.

Fire Monster: laughing "Surrender the Guiding Flame, or I will reduce this pitiful village to nothing but ash!"

Surrounding it, like shadows given life, the Shadowlings moved in a chaotic swarm. They slithered and darted between the villagers, their clawed hands tearing through anything they could reach.

Glomi skidded to a stop, her chest heaving as her eyes locked onto the devastation. Her grip on the Guiding Flame tightened, the rusty sword dull and unassuming in her hand. But something about its weight, its hum of energy, made her pulse quicken.

Her molten eyes narrowed, burning with determination.

Glomi: low, growling "I hate people like you."

She didn't hesitate. With a burst of speed, Glomi launched herself into the fray, her body shifting and rippling as she dodged the clawed swipes of the Shadowlings. She swung the Guiding Flame in a wide arc, its blade slicing through the creatures like they were made of smoke. They dissolved into black wisps with shrill cries, but more replaced them, surging forward.

Villager: shouting "Look out!"

Glomi spun just in time to see a Shadowling lunging at her from the side. Her body twisted unnaturally, fluid and unpredictable, as she lashed out with a kick that sent the creature flying into a burning cart. She smirked, wiping a strand of glowing slime from her face.

Glomi: "You're going to have to try harder than that."

But then, the fire monster turned its blazing eyes on her. Its molten lips curled into a sneer as it stomped forward, each step shaking the ground.

Fire Monster: mockingly "A slime like you thinks she can stand against me? Pathetic!"

Before Glomi could react, the monster swung its massive, flaming fist. The impact hit her like a cannonball, sending her flying across the square. She crashed into a crumbled stall, her semi-liquid body rippling from the force. The Guiding Flame flew from her grasp, landing with a dull clang a few feet away.

Pain coursed through her, but she gritted her teeth, forcing herself to her feet. Her body trembled as she re-solidified, and her glowing eyes burned brighter.

The fire monster laughed, its voice a deep, rumbling roar.

Fire Monster: "Give up now, slime! Touch that sword, and you'll be nothing but a puddle!"

The Guiding Flame lay between them, its blade surrounded by a swirling wall of fire. It pulsed faintly, as though calling to her, and Glomi's gaze hardened. Memories of her father's voice filled her mind, his words steady and full of faith:

"You've got this. I won't be around all the time, so you've got to be a hero too—the one I see deep in you."

Her jaw clenched as she took a shaky step forward, then another. The heat from the flames was unbearable, but she pushed through, her molten skin hissing and steaming.

Glomi: muttering "So that's why Dad sent me here..."

The fire monster's laughter grew louder.

Fire Monster: "You're insane! You'll melt before you even reach it!"

But Glomi didn't stop. With each step, her determination grew, her body burning but her spirit unyielding.

Glomi: shouting "I won't give up! I won't let you hurt these people!"

Her voice rose into a defiant roar.

Glomi: "I'll stop you, no matter what it takes!"

With a final lunge, she thrust her hand through the flames and gripped the hilt of the Guiding Flame. The moment her fingers closed around it, the world seemed to freeze.

The sword erupted with fiery light, the flames shooting skyward in a blinding column of energy. The heat didn't burn her—it surged through her, filling her with power and purpose. The energy raced into the Relic Morpher on her wrist, its gears whirring to life as it shouted:

Relic Morpher: "START YOUR ENGINES!"

Glomi blinked in shock as the voice echoed in her ears. She turned toward the lab, where Dr. Marlen was leaning heavily against the doorway, her voice weak but urgent.

Dr. Marlen: "The code! Enter 0-1-4!"

Glomi nodded, her slime-like fingers flying over the morpher's keypad. She shouted each number as she entered it:

Glomi: "Zero! One! Four!"

The handle shot out from the morpher with a loud clang, and its voice boomed once more:

Relic Morpher: "ARE YOU READY?!?"

Glomi's lips curled into a grin, her molten eyes glowing brighter than ever. She gripped the handle with her hand, her heart pounding.

Glomi: shouting "Let's go full blast!"

She twisted the handle, and an explosion of fire erupted from the morpher. The flames engulfed her, spiraling around her body in a vortex of energy. Metal plates formed over her limbs, locking into place with mechanical precision. Her helmet snapped into existence, its visor gleaming like a blade.

When the flames subsided, Glomi stood tall, transformed. She was no longer just a slime witch—she was the Red Relic Ranger. The Guiding Flame in her hand had transformed as well, its rusty blade now a sleek, glowing weapon of power.

The villagers stared in awe, their fear momentarily replaced by hope.

The fire monster took a step back, its confidence faltering.

Fire Monster: growling "What... what are you?!"

Glomi lifted the Guiding Flame, its edge crackling with fire, and pointed it at the monster. Her voice was steady and commanding, filled with newfound power.

Glomi: "I'm the Red Relic Ranger—and you're about to get extinguished."

With a fiery battle cry, she launched herself forward, her blade igniting as she clashed with the monster head-on. Flames roared, sparks flew, and the battle for the village truly began.

The fire monster slammed a molten claw into the ground, sending a shockwave through the square. The impact knocked over crates, shattered windows, and sent villagers running for cover. Smoke and embers filled the air as the creature let out a guttural laugh, its voice like crackling flames.

Fire Monster: mocking "Did you think you could defeat me so easily, slime? Shadowlings, arise!"

The scorched earth split apart, and from the cracks emerged a fresh wave of Shadowlings, their shifting forms crackling with fiery embers. They shrieked and howled as they surrounded Glomi, their glowing red eyes fixed on her like predators circling their prey.

Glomi stood tall in her Red Relic Ranger armor, her grip tightening around the Guiding Flame, now ablaze with energy. Her semi-liquid body shimmered beneath the armor as she shifted her weight, readying herself for the fight.

Glomi: grinning under her helmet, muttering to herself "This power... what is this? It feels amazing!"

The Shadowlings charged, their clawed hands slashing at her from all directions. Glomi leaped into the air, flipping gracefully over the first wave of attackers. As she landed, her sword ignited, cutting a fiery arc through the nearest Shadowlings. Each one disintegrated into a cloud of ash with a hiss, their remains carried away on the wind.

One Shadowling lunged from her left, its claws aimed at her side. Glomi sidestepped with ease, her movements fluid and precise. She swung her sword in a wide arc, the flames trailing behind it creating a fiery barrier that consumed another group of attackers.

Glomi: taunting "Come on, is that all you've got?"

The fire monster growled, frustrated by her skill.

Fire Monster: roaring "Pathetic worms! You're useless! I'll deal with her myself!"

It raised its molten claw, hurling a barrage of fireballs in rapid succession. The air shimmered with heat as the projectiles streaked toward Glomi. She darted forward, her body low to the ground as she dodged the first two. With a swift upward slash, she deflected the third fireball, sending it hurtling into the sky where it exploded harmlessly.

Another fireball came from her right, but she twisted her body, her semi-liquid form allowing her to flow effortlessly around the attack. She planted her feet, her sword blazing brighter as she unleashed a fiery wave that collided with the remaining fireballs, neutralizing them in a burst of sparks.

The monster reeled back, its confidence faltering.

Fire Monster: snarling "What... What is this power? How can a slime wield such strength?!"

Glomi didn't answer. Her focus was on the fight, her every move sharper, faster, and more confident than before. She sprinted toward the monster, her feet leaving scorched trails in the dirt. The Guiding Flame seemed to pulse in her hand, as if it were alive and responding to her determination.

She slashed at the monster's chest, her blade carving a fiery streak across its molten form. The creature roared in pain, stumbling back as flames erupted from the wound.

Glomi: gritting her teeth "It's time to end this!"

She reached for the Relic Morpher on her wrist, her fingers steady despite the adrenaline coursing through her veins. With a determined twist, she turned the handle once.

The device let out a low, powerful rumble.

She twisted it again. The rumble grew louder, the heat around her intensifying.

On the third twist, the Relic Morpher let out a triumphant roar:

"IGNITION BOOST!"

Flames erupted from the Guiding Flame, engulfing the blade in a blazing aura that radiated intense heat. Glomi felt the power surging through her, every fiber of her being alive with energy.

The fire monster stumbled, its molten eyes wide with panic.

Fire Monster: desperately "No! This isn't possible! You're just—"

Glomi didn't wait for it to finish. She launched herself forward, her body a blur of motion. The monster swung a massive claw at her, but she ducked under it, her movements fluid and unstoppable.

With a fierce battle cry, she slashed downward, her sword cutting clean through the monster's molten core.

The fire monster let out a final, guttural scream as its body erupted into a fiery explosion. The flames consumed it entirely, leaving nothing behind—not even embers or ash.

As the dust settled, the Relic Morpher powered down with a soft hum. The flames around the Guiding Flame flickered and dimmed as Glomi's armor dissolved in a shimmer of light. Exhaustion hit her like a wave, her semi-liquid body rippling as her knees buckled.

Before she could fall, Dr. Marlen appeared, catching her just in time.

Dr. Marlen: frantic, checking her over "Glomi! Are you okay? Say something!"

Glomi looked up at her with a weak but triumphant smile.

Glomi: softly "Did you see that, Doc? I actually did it..."

Dr. Marlen: relieved, smiling back "Yeah, you did. And you nearly gave me a heart attack in the process!"

Glomi chuckled faintly, leaning against the doctor for support as the villagers began to emerge from their hiding places. The square was quiet now, the threat vanquished.

For the first time in a long while, there was hope.

Soon as day turned into night, the village square had quieted, the chaos of the battle giving way to a fragile calm. Glomi leaned against the cool stone wall of a building, her semi-liquid form shimmering faintly in the soft glow of the lanterns. Her heart was still racing from the fight, but the fiery adrenaline had started to fade, replaced by a deep sense of accomplishment—and uncertainty.

She reached into a small pocket on her outfit, pulling out her simple phone. Her gooey fingers trembled slightly as she stared at the screen, tapping on the contact labeled Dad. The soft hum of the phone rang in her ears before a small hologram of Ryan Belladonna appeared above the device. His face was warm and familiar, his kind smile instantly putting her at ease.

Ryan Belladonna: with a bright, supportive tone "Glomi! There you are. You look good, kiddo! What's going on?"

Glomi couldn't help but smile, her cheeks glowing faintly with a golden hue. She leaned back against the wall, letting out a soft laugh.

Glomi: "Hey, Dad. I, uh... I just wanted to call. There's... a lot I need to tell you."

Ryan's brow furrowed slightly in concern, but his voice remained steady and calm.

Ryan Belladonna: "What happened, sweetheart? Are you okay?"

Glomi nodded quickly, her liquid hair rippling with the motion.

Glomi: "I'm fine. I'm more than fine, actually. There was... a fire monster. It attacked the village."

Ryan's eyes widened, his concern sharpening.

Ryan Belladonna: "A fire monster? Glomi, are you hurt? Did it—"

Glomi: cutting him off, smiling reassuringly "Dad, I'm okay. I promise. I... I stopped it."

The relief on Ryan's face was immediate, but his expression shifted to one of curiosity and pride.

Ryan Belladonna: "You stopped it? How?"

Glomi hesitated, looking down at her hand as she clenched it into a fist, still feeling the lingering warmth of the Guiding Flame's power.

Glomi: "The Guiding Flame—it chose me. And Dr. Marlen had this device, this morpher... it let me transform. Dad... I became a Ranger."

For a moment, there was silence. Then Ryan's face lit up with the brightest smile she'd ever seen.

Ryan Belladonna: beaming with pride "You what? Glomi, that's incredible! My girl's a Ranger! I knew you had it in you."

Glomi felt her cheeks heat up, glowing even brighter as she crossed her arms over her chest, suddenly bashful under his praise.

Glomi: "It's... it's not that big of a deal, Dad."

Ryan Belladonna: laughing "Not a big deal? Glomi, you saved a village and took down a monster! That's a huge deal. I couldn't be prouder of you, kiddo."

Glomi bit her lip, her molten yellow eyes shimmering with emotion.

Glomi: "It's just... everything happened so fast. When the relic chose me, and when I transformed... it felt amazing, but also terrifying. Like... like I'm holding something so much bigger than me."

Ryan's hologram leaned forward slightly, his voice gentle and reassuring.

Ryan Belladonna: "Glomi, listen to me. The relic chose you because it saw what I've always seen in you—someone strong, someone brave, someone who cares deeply about doing what's right. You're not alone in this. You've got this Dr. Marlen gal, your team which I know you will form, and me. Always me."

Glomi's eyes softened, and she found herself smiling again, tears threatening to form but never quite falling.

Glomi: "Thanks, Dad. That... that really means a lot."

Ryan grinned, his voice taking on a teasing tone.

Ryan Belladonna: "You're doing amazing, Glomi. I'm going to tell Serena and your uncles all about this. They're going to lose their minds!"

Glomi: waving her free hand, laughing "No, Dad, don't! It's embarrassing!"

Ryan Belladonna: smirking "Embarrassing? Glomi, you're a hero now! They're going to throw a party in your honor. Maybe I'll even bake that cake you like."

Glomi let out a soft, exasperated laugh, shaking her head.

Glomi: "You're impossible, you know that?"

Ryan Belladonna: softly "And you're unstoppable. Keep going, Glomi. You've got this. I'm so proud of you, sweetheart."

The hologram began to flicker as the connection faded, but Ryan's warm smile lingered in her mind long after it disappeared.

Glomi lowered the phone, staring at it for a moment before tucking it back into her pocket. She leaned her head back against the wall, her smile growing as she whispered to herself:

Glomi: "I'll make you proud, Dad. I promise."

Pushing off the wall, she straightened her posture, her molten form radiating confidence as she turned to rejoin the villagers, ready to help them rebuild and face whatever came next.
———————————————————————————
The screen fades to black, and a deep, commanding narrator's voice echoes through the silence.

Next time on Relic Rangers...

On a treacherous mountainside, Glomi and Dr. Marlen find themselves face-to-face with a legend. A towering dragon, the Titan of Flames, rises to challenge their courage... and their resolve.

But the Titan does not stand alone. A fiery apprentice steps forward, his blazing spirit as fierce as the flames he commands.

Can Glomi prove herself worthy of the power she wields? Or will the flames consume her before she can rise?

Prepare for trials, allies, and the heat of battle in... The Dragon's Trial!

———————————————————————————

Hey there, my amazing readers!

Thank you so much for diving into this chapter of Relic Rangers! I hope you had an absolutely super time reading it—I know I had a blast writing it for you. Crafting Glomi's journey, from her chaotic market adventures to her fiery showdown with the Shadowlings, has been such an exciting ride, and I couldn't be happier to share it with you.

What did you think? Did you enjoy the action, the mystery, or maybe the emotional moments with Glomi and her dad? I'd love to hear your thoughts, so don't hesitate to let me know what you loved or what you're excited to see next!

There's so much more to come—new allies, epic battles, and even more heart-pounding twists. I can't wait for you to see what's in store for Glomi and her friends as they rise to the challenge of becoming true Relic Rangers.

Until next time, keep being awesome, and thank you for being part of this journey. See you soon in the next chapter!

Stay Super Guys!!!