Chapter 5 — Bound by Shadows 🌒🔗
The cold air bit into Kaelen's skin as he followed Elara deeper into the forest, the pendant's faint glow lighting their path. Every crackle of leaves beneath their feet seemed louder, echoing in the stillness around them.
Kaelen's mind raced with questions — about the Black Lantern's mark, about the forces chasing him, about the destiny he hadn't chosen.
Elara's voice broke the silence. "The Essence isn't just power," she said quietly, "it's a bond. Once awakened, it ties you to the shadows of the past — and the wars to come."
Suddenly, a low growl rolled through the trees. From the darkness emerged a wolf, eyes gleaming with an unnatural light. Kaelen froze, the pendant thrumming violently against his chest.
"Elara?" His voice barely a whisper.
"The Guardians," she said, stepping forward with calm resolve. "They test the worthy."
The wolf's growl turned into a challenge, and Kaelen felt a surge of energy rise within him. This was no ordinary fight — it was a trial, a reckoning.
His journey was only beginning, and every shadow held a secret waiting to be unveiled.
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To the reader: 👁️🗨️
If you faced a trial like Kaelen's, would you fight or seek another way?
What would your strategy be?
Share your thoughts below! 💬🐺