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Chapter 3 - 3: The Journey Begins

Lyra stood outside Kaida's home, gazing out at the breathtaking vista before her. The Dragon's Spine mountains stretched out as far as the eye could see, their rugged peaks glistening in the sunlight. The air was crisp and clean, filled with the scent of pine and earth.

"We need to get moving," Kaida said, shouldering a large pack. "The Shadow Weaver's minions won't stop searching for you."

Lyra nodded, feeling a sense of determination wash over her. She was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, as long as Kaida was by her side.

As they set off, Lyra noticed that Kaida seemed to be following a specific path, one that wound through the mountains. "Where are we going?" Lyra asked, curiosity getting the better of her.

"We're heading to the Heartwood Forest," Kaida replied. "It's a sacred place, one where the ancient magic of the land still resonates. You'll be safe there, and you can learn to control your powers."

Lyra's eyes widened. "The Heartwood Forest? I've heard stories about that place. Isn't it... treacherous?"

Kaida smiled. "The forest has its dangers, but I'll be with you. We'll face whatever comes our way together."

As they journeyed on, Lyra found herself growing more and more aware of Kaida's presence. She noticed the way Kaida moved with a quiet confidence, her senses alert to every sound and movement. Lyra felt a sense of safety with Kaida by her side, but she also felt a growing sense of attraction.

She pushed the feeling aside, focusing on the task at hand. They had a long journey ahead of them, and they needed to stay focused.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the mountains, Kaida stopped suddenly. "Wait," she said, her voice low. "Do you hear that?"

Lyra listened, and soon she picked up on the sound of rustling leaves and snapping twigs. "What is it?" she whispered.

Kaida's eyes narrowed. "I'm not sure. Let's be cautious."

Together, they crept forward, their senses on high alert. As they rounded a bend in the path, Lyra caught sight of a group of shadowy figures lurking in the trees.

"Minions," Kaida whispered. "We need to get out of here, now."

Without hesitation, Kaida grabbed Lyra's hand and pulled her into a sprint. They ran down the mountain path, the minions hot on their heels.

As they fled, Lyra felt a surge of adrenaline coursing through her veins. She was scared, but she was also determined to protect herself and Kaida.

They burst through the trees, and Lyra saw a narrow stream running through the valley below. "Follow me," Kaida said, leaping down into the stream.

Lyra followed, her heart pounding in her chest. As they splashed through the water, Lyra felt a sense of freedom wash over her. They were escaping the minions, and they were in this together.

But as they emerged from the stream, Lyra saw something that made her heart skip a beat. A figure stood on the opposite bank, watching them with cold, calculating eyes.

"Kaida," Lyra whispered, her voice trembling. "Look."

Kaida's gaze followed Lyra's, and her eyes narrowed. "That's not good," she said, her voice low. "That's one of the Shadow Weaver's high-ranking minions. We need to get out of here, fast."

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