I wake up with a gasp, my body covered in cold sweat. The nightmare lingers in my mind, the weight of the 12th Brother's words pressing down on me. I look around, disoriented, and see Talia and Nikko lying beside me, their faces peaceful in sleep.

The sun is starting to rise, casting a soft glow over the campsite. I carefully get up, not wanting to wake them. My heart is still racing, and I know I won't be able to sleep again.

I move to a quiet spot a short distance away and sit down to meditate, trying to clear my mind. I close my eyes, taking deep breaths, but the nightmare keeps flashing in my mind. Lyra's face, Talia and Nikko's lifeless bodies, the mocking voice of the 12th Brother. I try to push the images away, but they cling to me, refusing to let go. I hear movement behind me. I open my eyes and see Talia and Nikko approaching, their faces bright with the new day.

"Good morning," Talia says, stretching. "Did you sleep well?"

"Yeah, just fine," I lie, standing up and brushing the dirt off my clothes. "Ready to start the day?"

Nikko runs up and hugs me. "Good morning, Papa! What are we doing today?"

I ruffle her hair, my smile feeling more forced by the second. "We'll be heading back to the orphanage and hand Holly the herbs. But first, how about breakfast?"

They don't catch on to my unease, and I silently thank the Force for small mercies. As we start our morning routine, I can't shake the lingering dread from the nightmare. The voice's words echo in my mind, a grim reminder of my fears and failures.

But I push it down, focusing on the tasks at hand. For now, I have to be strong for Talia and Nikko. They need me, and I can't afford to let my nightmares get in the way.

As we sit down to eat breakfast, the lingering unease from the nightmare still clings to my thoughts. I watch Talia and Nikko as they chat, trying to focus on the here and now. Finally, I break the silence with a question that's been gnawing at me.

"What exactly is that Shadowfell creature we encountered?" I ask, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside me.

Talia looks up, a hint of concern crossing her face. She pauses for a moment, gathering her thoughts. "Well, from what I know, the Shadowfell are beings created by the Shadow Prince thousands of years ago. Have you heard of the Shadow Prince?"

I nod, recalling the tales Eldrin told me. "He's the one who created the dungeons and almost plunged Aranthia into an age of darkness."

"That's right," Talia confirms. "The Shadowfell are his most sinister creations. They feed on the life force of living beings, creating despair and chaos wherever they go. The old tales describe them as harbingers of great calamity."

Nikko, sitting beside me, listens intently. Her ears twitch, and her tail sways nervously, betraying her worry. I reach out and give her a reassuring pat, though my own mind races with concern.

"This one we encountered," Talia continues, "it was exactly like the ones mentioned in the old tales. Their existence alone can bring great misfortune. The kingdom needs to be warned. How one has returned is unclear, but it's a grave threat."

I nod, digesting her words. "We can't ignore this. We need to act."

Talia agrees, her eyes resolute. "We should split up. Apollo and I will go to the guild to inform them about the Shadowfell. You and Nikko should head to the orphanage to complete our quest. We'll meet up at the guild afterward."

Nikko looks up at me, her concern evident in the way her ears flatten slightly and her eyes search mine. She's trying to be brave, but I can see the worry in her posture.

"Don't worry, Nikko," I say, giving her a reassuring smile. "I'm fine. Just a bit tired, that's all."

She nods, though her concern doesn't completely fade. She clings to my arm a little tighter as we finish our breakfast. The sun has begun climbing higher in the sky, casting long shadows through the trees. Apollo steps out from the tree line where it had been standing guard, DP-7 hovering near its shoulder. The droid beeps a few times, greeting us and reporting that all is clear.

"Good morning, Apollo, DP-7," I say, nodding in acknowledgment. "Let's pack up and head to Arroyo."

We quickly break down the camp, packing our gear and making sure everything is secure. Nikko hums a little tune as she helps, her earlier worry replaced by the excitement of returning to the orphanage. Talia works efficiently, her movements quick and precise.

With the camp packed, we set off toward Arroyo. The trip on the speeder bike is quick, the city coming into view as the sun hovers over us. As we reach the outskirts of Arroyo, the city's bustling activity becomes evident. The streets are alive with people going about their daily business. Vendors shout their wares, children play in the alleys, and the clatter of hooves and wagon wheels fills the air. We pause at the city gate, the massive wooden doors standing open, welcoming travelers and merchants alike.

"Alright, this is where we split up," Talia says, looking at me. "I'll speak to the guild master. Once you are done, we'll meet at the tavern in the guild hall."

I nod, glancing down at Nikko. "We'll get this done quickly."

She nods, her ears perking up with determination. "Okay, Papa."

With a final nod to Talia and Apollo, we part ways. Talia and Apollo head towards the bustling heart of the city where the guild is located. Nikko and I turn towards the quieter streets leading to the orphanage.

As we walk, I can't help but feel the weight of the mission. The Shadowfell encounter still lingers in my mind, a dark shadow over our journey. But I push those thoughts aside for now. We have a job to do, and Mrs. Whitaker's life depends on us.

The orphanage comes into view, a modest building with a weathered facade. The sign above the entrance hangs crookedly, the paint faded from years of exposure to the elements. I knock on the door, and after a moment, it creaks open to reveal Holly.

Holly's eyes widen in surprise as she sees us standing at the door. "You're back! And so soon!" She quickly examines our faces, her expression turning to concern. "Did something happen? Was the information I gave you wrong?"

I shake my head, pulling out a carefully wrapped bundle of King's Foil and presenting it to her. Her eyes light up, and she stammers, "That's... that's King's Foil! How did you—" She cuts herself off, her face breaking into a wide smile as she pulls me into a grateful hug. "Thank you! Thank you so much!" She takes the bundle with trembling hands.

"Come in, come in," she says, ushering us inside. "You've arrived at a perfect time. The cleric is here to check on Mrs. Whitaker. He can use this herb now."

Nikko and I follow Holly through the orphanage. The walls are lined with cheerful drawings and handmade decorations, but the building's wear and tear are evident. We enter Mrs. Whitaker's room, where she lies asleep, still gravely ill on her bed. Beside her stands the cleric, a middle-aged man in tan ropes with mystical runes woven into his robes. He has a kind but tired face, his eyes showing both wisdom and exhaustion.

"Who are these people, Holly?" the cleric asks, looking at us curiously.

Instead of answering, Holly shoves the bundle of King's Foil toward him. "Look, Ashur! King's Foil!"

Ashur's eyes widen in surprise. "Is this really King's Foil?" Holly nods eagerly. He immediately starts rummaging through his bag, pulling out various tools and ingredients. He sets out a mortar and pestle, a small pot, and several glass vials filled with various liquids.

"This will need to be prepared carefully," he mutters, beginning to work with the herbs. "I'll need some privacy, Holly. Please, step outside with your guests."

We step out, and Holly leads us to the meeting room. She offers us tea, and I gratefully accept. Nikko, spotting the other children playing in the courtyard, looks at me with hopeful eyes.

"Can I go play with them again?" she asks.

"Of course," I say, smiling. She runs off, her laughter soon mixing with the other children's.

Holly, clearly impatient, turns to me. "How did you get the herbs from a dragon den so quickly? Was it empty?"

I shake my head. "No, it wasn't empty. We encountered dragons—plenty of them. It was a tough fight, but we managed."

Holly's eyes widen in amazement. "Dragons? And you still got the King's Foil? That's incredible!" She hesitates, her expression turning somber. "I feel bad that you had to go through so much for us."

I shake my head. "I'm glad to help. The orphanage and Mrs. Whitaker needed it."

She retrieves the copper coin again, but I decline once more. This time, I pull out a large pouch and place it on the table. "The dragon's den was overflowing with riches so I thought I'll share them," I explain, pushing the pouch towards her.

Curious, Holly opens the pouch. Her eyes widen, and she nearly faints at the sight of the gold coins inside. "I... I can't possibly accept this," she stammers.

"Please," I insist, "the pouch is far too heavy to carry alone. The children need this more than I do."

A tear rolls down her cheek as she expresses her gratitude. "Thank you, Ryu. You have no idea how much this means to us."

Warmth fills me at her words. Just then, Ashur returns, wiping his hands clean on a cloth. "The herb is working," he announces. "Mrs. Whitaker will make a full recovery. She should be on her feet again by tomorrow."

Holly's face lights up with relief and joy. "Thank you, doctor," she says, and then turns to me. "I don't know how to thank you enough, Ryu."

"No need for thanks," I reply. "Helping you and the orphanage is reward enough."

We wave goodbye to Holly and the children, their happy faces and excited waves a heartwarming sight. As we head towards the guild, I feel a deep sense of satisfaction. Nikko skips beside me, her earlier concerns fading into the background. The sun is setting, casting a warm glow over the city of Arroyo as we make our way through the bustling streets.

⚔⚔⚔⚔⚔

Talia steps into the bustling guild hall, Apollo towering silently behind her. The air is filled with the clamor of adventurers discussing missions, clinking glasses, and the occasional burst of laughter. Her eyes quickly find Felicity, who is busy at the reception desk. Determined, Talia strides forward, Apollo's metallic footsteps echoing softly behind her.

"Felicity," Talia greets warmly.

Felicity looks up, smiling. "Talia! Apollo! Good to see you both. Where are Ryu and Nikko?"

"They're busy at the moment," Talia replies, her voice urgent. "We need to speak with the guild master immediately."

Felicity's expression shifts to concern. "What's this about?"

Talia leans in, whispering, "We encountered a Shadowfell."

Felicity's eyes widen in disbelief. "A Shadowfell? Are you sure?"

"Please, Felicity," Talia pleads. "We need to speak to the guild master."

Felicity studies her for a moment, then nods. "Alright, I'll see if Lady Kyra is available, but no promises." She disappears into the back.

Talia waits anxiously, feeling the weight of the situation pressing down on her. Moments later, Felicity returns. "Lady Kyra will see you now," she says, gesturing for them to follow.

Talia and Apollo walk through the bustling hall and into the quieter, more solemn back offices of the guild. They are led to a sturdy wooden door, and Felicity knocks briefly before opening it. "Lady Kyra, Talia and Apollo are here to see you."

Lady Kyra stands behind her desk, a no-nonsense woman with a stern demeanor. Her dark hair is pulled back tightly, and her eyes are sharp and calculating. She exudes an aura of authority and intensity.

"Thank you, Felicity," Lady Kyra says curtly. She turns her gaze to Talia and Apollo. "I'm Elizabeth Kyra, guild master of the Arroyo Adventurers Guild. Please, sit." She gestures to a pair of chairs before her desk.

Talia and Apollo take their seats, the tension in the air palpable. Lady Kyra's sharp eyes lock onto them as she wastes no time. "Tell me about this Shadowfell."

Talia takes a deep breath before recounting the events at the fourth dragon den. She carefully leaves out Ryu's personal ordeal but paints a vivid picture of the gruesome scenes and the Shadowfell's destructive presence.

Lady Kyra listens without a flicker of emotion. After a beat, she leans forward. "Describe this creature."

"It was made of pure darkness," Talia begins, her voice steady. "It fed on the dragons' essence, like a living shadow, malevolent and suffocating."

Without a word, Lady Kyra rises from her desk and strides over to a towering bookshelf. She selects an ancient tome, flipping through the pages with practiced precision. Stopping at an illustration, she places the open book before Talia. "Is this what you saw?"

Talia studies the illustration closely. The image of the Shadowfell is an exact match. "Yes," she confirms. "That's it."

Lady Kyra closes the book with a sharp thud, the sound echoing through the room. "Thank you for bringing this to my attention. You're dismissed."

Talia hesitates, sensing her request hasn't been fully heard, but Lady Kyra's stern expression makes it clear the conversation is over. Reluctantly, she nods, standing alongside Apollo. As they exit the office, the heavy door shuts behind them with a finality that leaves Talia unsettled. She heads toward the guild's tavern, the weight of the encounter pressing down on her.

They sit at a table, and a waitress approaches. "What can I get you?"

Talia orders a stiff drink, deciding on a strong ale, and Apollo declines any refreshment. As she sips her drink, her mind races. She thinks about the danger they've faced, the gravity of encountering a Shadowfell, and the uncertain future ahead. She wonders about Ryu's state of mind and how they will move forward. The weight of their experiences presses heavily on her as she takes another sip, the warmth of the ale doing little to ease her troubled thoughts.

⚔⚔⚔⚔⚔

Two days have passed, and there's still no word about the Shadowfell incident. The uncertainty gnaws at me, a constant reminder of the dangers we faced. I stand by the window, staring out at the bustling streets of Arroyo. The city's energy contrasts sharply with the turmoil inside me.

I sigh and turn away from the window. Talia and Nikko went clothes shopping to pass the time, leaving me alone with my thoughts. Apollo stands silently by the door, its presence a constant and reassuring weight.

"Let's head to the guild," I say, breaking the silence. "I want to learn more about this world's magic. And maybe you can further your knowledge about this place as well."

Apollo nods. "Affirmative. Expanding my knowledge base on the history and conflicts of this world will be beneficial."

We make our way through the lively streets, the sun shining brightly overhead. The grand building of the Adventurers Guild Hall with its tall, arched windows and stone steps, stands at the end of the street. I head for the library on the second floor of the guild hall. Inside, the air is cool and filled with the scent of old books. Shelves upon shelves of ancient tomes and scrolls line the walls, and the quiet murmurs of scholars fill the room.

I head to the section on magic, while Apollo moves towards the history aisles. Hours pass as we delve into our respective studies. Apollo shares its findings with me during short breaks, revealing the history of the kingdoms, their conflicts over the centuries, and the deities they worship. The most intriguing discovery is the story of the Shadow Prince. Just as Eldrin had told me, the stories differ, but all agree on the near dark age the Shadow Prince created.

"The Shadow Prince nearly plunged this world into eternal darkness," Apollo says, its voice low to avoid disturbing the other patrons. "The Shadowfells were used to wear down entire kingdoms, spreading despair and weakening the willpower of the people. Unfortunately, there isn't much detail on how these creatures were defeated."

I nod thoughtfully, turning my attention back to the book on elemental magic. The section on Earth and Air magic captures my interest. The techniques described remind me of manipulating elements with the Force, something I had read about in ancient Jedi texts.

Earth magic involves manipulating the ground, shaping it into various forms. It's similar to certain Force abilities like Force Push but more specialized. I read about using the Force to manipulate the elements, such as creating whirlwinds or causing tremors.

"I need to test this," I mutter to myself, closing the book.

Apollo looks up from its reading. "Would you like assistance?"

I shake my head. "No, I need to see if I can do this on my own."

We leave the library and head back to the guild. I approach the reception desk where Felicity is busy with paperwork.

"Excuse me, Felicity. I need to use a private training ground," I say.

She looks up, surprised but then nods. "Of course, Ryu. Follow me."

She leads us through the bustling hallways and into a secluded training area. The walls are reinforced, and the room is soundproofed to allow for intense practice without disturbing others.

"Here you go," Felicity says, opening the door.

"Thanks," I reply, stepping inside with Apollo.

I stand in the center of the room, taking a deep breath. I reach out with the Force, trying to connect with the earth beneath me. Nothing happens. I try again, focusing harder, but still, the earth refuses to respond.

"You are weak," a voice echoes in my mind, the 12th Brother's mocking tone. "You'll never master this."

I grit my teeth, frustration building. I try again, but the ground remains unmoved. Apollo stands nearby, its concern evident even in its mechanical demeanor.

"Focus," I tell myself. "Calm down."

I close my eyes, blocking out the taunting voice. Talia's words echo in my mind, her encouragement giving me strength. I try again, and this time, the ground trembles slightly. It's small, but it's progress.

I continue, the earth responding increasingly with each attempt. Small rocks rise from the ground, and I manipulate them into various shapes. It's difficult, and the strain is evident, but I'm making progress.

Apollo watches silently, its presence a reminder of the support I have. The rocks grow larger, and I shape them with more precision. Finally, after what feels like hours, I stand back, panting but satisfied.

"I did it," I say, a small smile forming on my lips.

Apollo nods. "Your progress is commendable."

"Thanks," I reply, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Let's head back."

⚔⚔⚔⚔⚔

Apollo and I step into the main hall of the guild, and it's chaotic. The place is overwhelmed with mission requests. Adventurers crowd the reception desks, voices raised in frustration. I spot a group of adventurers yelling at a receptionist.

"This is ridiculous! Nothing but animal-slaying quests? They barely pay anything!" one of them shouts.

"We want the high-rewarding quests, not this nonsense!" another adds, slamming his fist on the counter.

The receptionist tries to calm them down. "Please, we're doing our best to handle the situation. The kingdom sent all these requests at once—"

But they curse her and storm out, leaving the receptionist looking frazzled and overwhelmed. Each of the receptionists is buried in paperwork, trying to manage the influx of quests. Apollo stands idle in a corner, observing the commotion with its usual calm demeanor.

I approach the mission board, the board overflowing with sheer number of animal-killing quests plastered across it. Each pamphlet details attacks on travelers, farms, and even nearby villages by local wildlife behaving aggressively and erratically. It's disturbing to see so many reports of once-docile animals turning hostile.

I approach the counter, finding Felicity buried in a mountain of paperwork. "Felicity, what's going on with all these animal-killing quests?"

She looks up, exhaustion etched on her face. "Over the last couple of days, the local wildlife has been acting strangely. We've had reports of attacks on travelers, farms, even nearby villages by animals that are usually docile or not this aggressive. It's been happening all over the kingdom."

"And what is the kingdom doing about this?" I ask, frustration creeping into my voice.

Felicity sighs. "Not a single thing. They've just unloaded all these problems on us now and guild is overwhelmed. We can't handle this many requests at once."

I look around, seeing other receptionists similarly buried in paperwork. Felicity continues, "I'm very busy at the moment, Ryu. Unless you want to accept a mission, I need to get back to work."

Without hesitation I head for the mission board, grabbing as many mission pamphlets as possible and stacking them in front of her. "I want to take all of these," I say firmly.

Felicity raises an eyebrow, her expression skeptical. "Ryu, this is a lot. It would be far too difficult and overwhelming to take on this many at once."

I smirk, "I've faced worse odds before. With the right strategy, it can be done."

Just then, Talia and Nikko enter the guild.

Nikko runs up to me, beaming. "Papa, look at my new outfit!"

Nikko looks equally impressive in her new clothes, wearing a dark green jacket, white pants, and a pair of sturdy boots. She also has a utility belt with various pouches, making her look ready for any adventure.

I smile, ruffling her hair. "It suits you very well, Nikko. You look like a real adventurer."

"What do you think, Ryu? Does this suit me?" I hear Talia ask. My gaze shifts to Talia. She is dressed in a stylish yet practical outfit with a mix of greens and browns, perfect for blending into the wilderness yet highlighting her elegant form. Her new attire includes a green hooded cloak, leather armor adorned with intricate leaf patterns, and a quiver of arrows on her back.

She looks breathtaking, and the word slips out before I can stop it. "Talia, you look... breathtaking."

Talia's eyes widen, and a blush spreads across her cheeks. "Thank you, Ryu," she says, trying to hide her embarrassment. She then notices the large stack of mission pamphlets. "What's all this?"

"We should talk at the guild's tavern," I suggest. We make our way to the tavern and find a table. The waitress comes over, but we all decline her offer to take our order.

The firelight from the hearth flickers, casting long shadows across the tavern as Talia's gaze shifts back to me, her expression shifting from concern to something more serious. "Ryu, why are you taking on so many missions at once? Even with that speeder bike of yours, it would take weeks to complete them all."

I exhale slowly, gathering my thoughts. "I need to gather information," I reply, my voice firm. "This is happening all over the kingdom, not just here. The strange behavior, the attacks—it's spreading. And I have a strong feeling the Shadowfell is behind it. If we can find it again, maybe we can take it down for good."

Talia leans back in her chair, crossing her arms, her green eyes narrowing slightly. "This is ridiculous, Ryu. So many missions... You can't help everyone."

Her words hang in the air, and for a moment, they echo in my mind. I turn to face her fully, feeling the weight of her concern, but I can't let it deter me. "I need to," I say, my voice quieter now but filled with resolve. "I can't just sit back while all these people suffer. I can't, Talia."

She studies me for a long moment, her expression softening as she realizes how deeply this weighs on me. After what feels like an eternity, she nods, her voice gentle. "Okay. And I'll help too."

A small voice chirps from the side, and I glance down to see Nikko looking up at me, her eyes wide with determination. "Me too, Papa," she says, her little tail twitching with excitement.

I smile beneath my hood, the warmth of their support filling me with gratitude.

"I will assist as well," Apollo adds, his deep voice calm yet resolute as he steps forward from his usual watchful position nearby.

I look around at them—Talia, Nikko, Apollo—each of them ready to stand by me. The weight on my shoulders feels lighter with them by my side. "Thank you," I murmur, my voice barely above a whisper, but my heart full.

We sit together, the weight of the tasks ahead of us pressing down but our resolve firm. As we approach the speeder bike hidden in the forest, I pull out each mission pamphlet, scanning through them while fiddling with my gauntlet. The stack of missions we accepted is daunting, but it's a necessary step in combating the rising darkness in Eldoria and finding the Shadowfell. Nikko, her curiosity piqued, watches me closely.

"What are you doing, Papa?" Nikko asks, her cat ears twitching with curiosity.

"I'm inputting each mission location into the global map on my gauntlet," I explain. "This way, we can plan the most efficient route to complete them all."

Finally, I finish and project a holographic map of the world. The map shows the kingdom of Eldoria, situated in the green expanse on the top right. Arroyo lies in the very center near the dense forests. The Elven kingdom is marked by the lush green forests in the heart of the continent. Numerous red dots surround Arroyo, indicating our mission locations.

"This map shows where we are and where each mission is," I say, pointing to the red dots. "Each red dot represents a mission location. As you can see, there are many. We'll be busy for a few days."

Talia leans in, examining the map. "Looks like we have our work cut out for us."

I nod and deactivate the hologram. "Let's get moving. We have a lot to do."

⚔⚔⚔⚔⚔

Our journey began with tasks that seemed straightforward enough, though the peculiarities quickly piled up. The first few villages we visited greeted us with a mix of fear and relief, their gratitude evident but tinged with unease. The animals that plagued them were ordinary creatures—rodents, wild dogs, and even rabbits—but their behavior was far from normal. They attacked with a ferocity I've rarely seen, almost as if they were driven by something unseen.

One of the earlier villages had been dealing with a wolf pack. Wolves are naturally cautious animals, more likely to avoid humans than to confront them, yet these had stormed into the village in broad daylight, tearing into livestock and injuring a farmer who had tried to fend them off. Another village spoke of a bear that had lumbered into their midst, smashing fences and killing several sheep before attacking a group of villagers who had tried to drive it off. Three people didn't survive the encounter. I'd never seen fear etched so deeply into a person's face as I did in the village elder who recounted the event to me.

The more we traveled, the stranger it all became. At one settlement, wild boars had charged through the fields, trampling crops and goring anyone who got too close. Another had been overrun by a flock of crows that swooped down on the townsfolk like a dark cloud, pecking at exposed skin and eyes. The sight of a young boy clutching his bandaged face, his small body trembling, will stay with me for a long time.

It wasn't just the attacks that were troubling; it was the aftermath. In the village attacked by wolves, a hunter pulled me aside after we'd taken care of the remaining pack. His voice was hushed, his words heavy with unease.

"There's been no game today," he said, glancing over his shoulder as if expecting someone—or something—to be listening. "Not a single kill. This time of year, the woods should be full of venison and elk. It's mating season, for gods' sake. But it's like they've vanished."

I didn't have an answer for him. None of it made sense. These attacks were not only destroying lives but also livelihoods. Fields lay flattened, livestock slaughtered, and entire families were left wondering if they'd survive the coming winter. The unease in these villages was palpable, and with every new encounter, the questions in my mind multiplied.

That first day was relentless. By the time the sun dipped below the horizon, we had helped twelve villages. Each one was scarred in its own way, the people worn thin by fear and desperation. I lay awake that night, staring up at the stars, wondering what could possibly be driving the animals to act like this.

The second day brought a shift—an unsettling one. The morning started much the same, but as the hours passed, the animal attacks seemed to dwindle. Villages reported fewer incidents, and by afternoon, there was little for us to do. The absence of attacks should have been a relief, yet it wasn't. The villagers we encountered that day were different.

Their eyes were colder, their words clipped. They watched us with suspicion, not gratitude, and I noticed the same wary glances exchanged between them. Mistrust hung heavy in the air, like a fog that refused to lift. By the end of the day, we had only been able to assist in four of the thirteen villages marked on our map. The others turned us away with tight lips and guarded expressions, as if they feared us more than the animals that had plagued them just a day before.

The third day brought no animals to slay at all. Instead, the requests were strange. A village elder asked us to inspect their well, claiming the water had turned sour overnight. Sure enough, the liquid we pulled up reeked of rot, the smell enough to make Talia gag. Another village brought us to their fields, where crops that had been healthy just days before were now yellowed and withering, the leaves curling in on themselves as if scorched by an invisible fire.

Livestock, too, were dying. Cows gave milk that curdled as soon as it was poured, and chickens laid eggs that reeked of sulfur when cracked. In one village, we arrived to find the townsfolk gathered around a massive pyre at the edge of their settlement. The air was thick with the acrid stench of burning flesh. Dead livestock had been piled high, their bodies blackened and twisted by the flames.

"Why burn them?" I asked one of the men standing nearby. His face was drawn, eyes bloodshot from either exhaustion or grief—or both.

"We had to," he said, his voice hoarse. "They were rotting before they even died. Flies were swarming before we could even bury them. Something's not right."

Something, indeed. Each step of this journey has felt like peeling back layers of a mystery, only to find more darkness lurking beneath. The map we carry shows fewer red dots now, but the weight of what we've seen grows heavier with each passing day. There is a sickness here, spreading faster than we can move, and I can't shake the feeling that it's only the beginning.

The fourth day marked a shift from unsettling to outright bizarre. We arrived at a village just after sunrise, expecting the usual requests for help with animals or odd maladies. Instead, the elder who greeted us—a woman with deep lines of age etched into her face and a demeanor that should have been welcoming—made a request that chilled me to the core.

"They are to blame," she said firmly, her voice sharp like a blade. Her gnarled finger pointed toward the hills in the distance, where the outline of a neighboring village could just be made out through the morning haze. "Their village has cursed us. They poisoned our well and drove the animals mad. You must wipe them out."

I blinked, sure I had misheard. "Excuse me?" I said carefully, trying to keep my tone even. "You're asking us to... wipe them out?"

The elder's expression didn't change. Her pale, clouded eyes held no warmth, only a cold, simmering hatred. Around her, the villagers nodded in agreement, their faces twisted with the same expression of animosity. No one smiled or chuckled, no one hinted at a jest. They were deadly serious.

"Yes," she replied, her voice unwavering. "Those traitorous dogs deserve to be burned from the earth."

The venom in her words was unsettling, and Talia must have felt the same. She stepped forward, her tone laced with incredulity. "Surely, there must be a misunderstanding. Maybe—"

"There is no misunderstanding," the elder snapped, cutting her off. Her voice rose, filled with righteous fury. "They are to blame for all of this! They have brought ruin upon us, and we will not suffer their wickedness any longer."

The intensity in the air was suffocating, and I raised a hand gently to signal Talia to stand down. "We'll take a look," I said diplomatically, forcing calm into my voice. "But violence isn't the answer. Let us investigate first."

The elder narrowed her eyes at me but said nothing further. Her silence felt like an accusation in itself. We mounted the speeder and headed for the neighboring village.

The reception we received there was no better. These villagers, too, were brimming with hostility, though theirs seemed more desperate, tinged with fear. A group of men stood in the center of the square, sharpening crude weapons—farm tools turned to implements of war. Their leader, a wiry man with a scar running across his cheek, stepped forward.

"They're planning to attack us, aren't they?" he demanded before I could even dismount. "Those bastards over the hill—what did they say?"

"They claim you're to blame for their misfortunes," I replied cautiously. "But I've come to suggest another way. Fighting will only bring more destruction."

His lip curled into a sneer. "Easy for you to say. You don't live here. You haven't seen what we've endured. They poisoned our fields and our livestock. They've killed us in spirit already. We won't wait for them to finish the job."

I took a step forward, drawing on the Force subtly, cloaking my words in a suggestion that would sound natural even to my companions. "You don't need to attack. If you and your neighbors worked together, you might find the answers you're looking for."

For a moment, his glare softened, the hard lines of his face easing into something resembling thoughtfulness. He exchanged glances with the others, and slowly, grudgingly, they nodded.

With a heavy sigh of relief, we left the two villages, hoping the tension would ease. But that relief was short-lived. As we approached the next village, black smoke billowed into the sky, visible long before we arrived.

"That's no small fire," Talia muttered, her hand instinctively tightening on her bow.

We parked the speeder at the edge of the village, and I told Nikko and Apollo to stay back while Talia and I investigated. Nikko looked up at me with wide eyes, her tail twitching nervously.

"Papa, is it another big fire for the animals?" she asked softly, clutching my sleeve.

"No," I said, gently placing a hand on her head. "It's something else. Stay with Apollo, okay?"

Apollo stepped forward, his metal frame gleaming in the smoky light. "I'll keep her safe," he said, his tone calm but firm. Nikko nodded reluctantly, wrapping her arms around his leg for comfort as we moved on.

The sight that greeted us in the village square was one of horror. Entire houses had been burned to the ground, their charred skeletons still smoldering. Bodies lay strewn across the ground, some bloodied, others blackened by fire. The air was thick with the stench of smoke and death.

Talia covered her mouth with her hand, her voice trembling. "This wasn't an accident."

"No," I agreed grimly, kneeling beside a body. A crude weapon was still clutched in the man's hand. "This was a fight—villagers against villagers."

The realization sank in like a stone in my chest. This was what could have happened at the previous villages had we not intervened. But why were these people turning against one another? Why were their crops dying, their livestock falling ill, and the animals attacking? My mind raced with questions, and an unsettling thought wormed its way into my head.

The Nightsisters.

I'd read about them—witches from Dathomir with the power to awaken the dead and bend the living to their will. Could one of them be behind this? Could someone else like me have landed in this world, bringing their darkness with them? I couldn't ignore the possibility, but there was no time to dwell on it. We had another village to help.

This next village was mercifully intact, but it was eerily quiet. Nikko clung to my hand as we walked down the empty streets, her ears flicking nervously at every small sound. Apollo followed close behind, scanning the area with precision.

"I don't like it here," Nikko whispered, her tail curling tightly against her leg. "It feels... bad."

"I know," I replied softly. "Stay close."

"This doesn't feel right," Talia muttered, her voice low but tense. Her hand rested on the bow slung across her back, her eyes scanning every shadow.

Nikko clung to my arm, her tail tucked tightly against her leg, her ears flat against her head. "Papa, where is everyone?" she whispered.

"I don't know," I replied softly, squeezing her hand for reassurance. "But we'll find out."

We approached the first house, a modest wooden structure with peeling paint and a sagging roof. I knocked firmly on the door, the sound echoing in the stillness. There was no answer. I waited a moment, then knocked again.

"Hello?" I called out. "We're here to help. Your village requested aid."

Nothing. No movement, no sound from within. I exchanged a glance with Talia, who frowned but nodded toward the next house.

We moved on, knocking on door after door. Each time, the result was the same. Silence, as if the homes were abandoned—or worse. At one house, I thought I saw a curtain twitch, but when I knocked again, there was no response.

"This is getting us nowhere," Talia muttered, frustration creeping into her tone.

Apollo, standing vigilantly nearby, spoke up. "The behavior is consistent with paranoia or fear. They may be unwilling to engage with outsiders."

I nodded, though the lack of any communication gnawed at me. "Let's keep trying. Someone here has to be willing to talk."

At the next house, Talia rapped on the door with her knuckles. "We're here to help," she said, her voice as steady and reassuring as she could manage. "Whatever is wrong, we can help fix it. Please, just talk to us."

From inside came a muffled response—a single word, barked with irritation. "Go away!"

Talia's jaw tightened, but she tried again. "Please, we just want to understand what's happening here. We've been helping villages like yours for days now."

"Leave us alone!" the voice snapped back, followed by the sound of hurried footsteps retreating further into the house.

Nikko tugged on my sleeve, her wide eyes brimming with worry. "Why don't they want our help, Papa? Did we do something wrong?"

I shook my head, kneeling to meet her gaze. "No, sweetheart. Sometimes people are afraid, and fear can make them act in ways that don't make sense. It's not about us."

Finally, at the last house on the row, I knocked again, more out of determination than hope. This time, after a long pause, the door creaked open just enough for a pale, gaunt face to peek through. A woman stood there, her eyes sunken and ringed with dark circles, her hand trembling as she gripped the edge of the door.

"What do you want?" she asked, her voice thin and shaky.

I held up the mission pamphlet, keeping my tone as gentle as possible. "We're here to help. Your village requested aid. We've come to see what we can do."

Her eyes flicked to the pamphlet, then back to me. She shook her head, her grip on the door tightening. "You shouldn't be here," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "Just... leave."

Talia stepped forward, concern etched into her features. "Ma'am, we've been traveling for days to help villages just like yours. If there's something wrong, we can—"

"Leave!" the woman snapped, her voice breaking as her face twisted with a mixture of fear and anger. Her hand darted to the door, slamming it shut before we could say another word.

The sound echoed in the silence, leaving us standing there, unsure of what to do next.

Apollo's calm voice broke the tension. "Their behavior suggests they're under significant duress. It may not be safe to remain here."

I sighed heavily, my shoulders sagging under the weight of the day. "Let's head back to the speeder."

As we walked away, Nikko's small voice broke through the oppressive silence. "Papa, why are they so scared? What's wrong with them?"

I glanced down at her, wishing I had an answer that would ease her worry. "I don't know, Nikko," I admitted. "But we'll figure it out. I promise."

As we near the edge of the village, a faint creak draws my attention. To our right, a door slowly opens, and a young girl—no older than thirteen or fourteen—peeks out. Her pale face and wide, wary eyes stand out against the gloom of the doorway.

"You're adventurers, right?" she whispers, her voice trembling but carrying a sliver of hope.

I nod, and so do Talia and Nikko. The girl glances over her shoulder nervously, then quickly gestures for us to come in.

"Please, hurry," she says, urgency lacing her words. She steps back, holding the door ajar, her eyes darting to the street as if expecting someone—or something—to be watching.

We step inside, and she shuts the door swiftly behind us, bolting it with shaky hands. The sound of the lock sliding into place echoes in the small hall.

A strange smell lingers in the air, faint but unpleasant, like something slightly rotten left too long. I glance around, taking in the details of the entryway. It's modest and cramped, with a row of muddy boots lined against one wall, though a few pairs have been carelessly tipped over. A wooden shepherd's staff leans against the corner, next to a bow with a quiver of arrows hanging neatly on a peg. Stairs lead to the upper floor, and another door opens further into the house. The faint scent of decay seems stronger from that direction.

"This way," the girl says quietly, beckoning us with a wave of her hand. She moves with hurried, almost frantic steps, her bare feet padding softly on the worn wooden floor.

The next room is a kitchen and dining area, dimly lit by a single lantern on the table. The space feels both lived-in and neglected. Plates and utensils are scattered across the table, alongside a half-eaten loaf of bread. The counters are cluttered with jars and tools, and a basin of stagnant water sits in the sink.

Seated at the table is a man who I assume to be her father. His broad shoulders slump forward, and his hands are clasped tightly together on the tabletop. His unshaven face is set in a grim expression, but his tired eyes widen in alarm the moment he sees us.

He stands abruptly, nearly knocking over his chair as he grabs the girl and pulls her behind him.

"Who are you?" he demands, his voice sharp, laced with suspicion. His calloused hand darts to a small knife lying on the counter by the stove. He snatches it up, holding it out in front of him with a trembling grip.

I raise my hands slowly, palms out to show I mean no harm. "We mean you no harm," I say calmly. "We're the adventurers who answered your call for help." I pull the mission pamphlet from my satchel and hold it up for him to see.

His eyes flick to the pamphlet, but his grip on the knife remains tight. "Stay back," he warns, his voice cracking with tension.

From behind me, Nikko peeks out cautiously, her ears twitching. The man's gaze shifts to her, and for a moment, his expression softens in shock.

"Father, please," the girl says, stepping out from behind him. Her hands grip his arm as she looks up at him with pleading eyes. "They're here to help."

The man's breath hitches as he looks at his daughter, then back at Nikko. Slowly, his shoulders slump, and he lowers the knife, letting out a weary sigh.

"There's no helping us," he mutters, the weight of his words hanging heavily in the room.

Talia steps forward carefully. "What's happening here?" she asks gently. "We thought this village was being attacked by wolves."

The man gestures to the table, his movements sluggish and resigned. "Sit," he says. "I'll explain."

We take seats around the table, though Nikko stays close to my side, her small hand clutching my sleeve. The girl stands behind her father, her eyes darting nervously between us.

The man exhales deeply, rubbing a hand over his face. "We were attacked," he begins, his voice hollow. "A pack of wolves came three nights ago. Killed a few of our sheep, but... we chased them off. Sent a hunting party out after them, but they came back empty-handed. No wolves. No game. Nothing."

He pauses, his voice faltering. "But that's not what's been plaguing us."

"What has?" Talia asks, her tone steady but tinged with concern.

The man's hands tighten into fists on the table. "Nightmares," he says hoarsely. "For the past three days, every night, we've been plagued by... terrible dreams. Horrible, horrible things I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy."

His daughter nods, her face pale. "Everyone has them," she whispers. "Every night."

The man continues, his voice growing heavier. "But the worst of it... is the mistrust."

"Mistrust?" I echo, leaning forward slightly.

He nods, his eyes downcast. "I don't know why, but those I was closest to... I can't stand the sight of them anymore. It's like some... poison in my mind, turning me against them. Friends glare at each other like enemies. Children fight over nothing. Neighbors accuse each other of theft, of sabotage. It's madness."

His voice cracks as he continues. "No one dares to leave the village anymore. Not because of the wolves, but because... because we'd tear each other apart if we tried."

The room falls silent for a moment, the weight of his words pressing down on all of us.

I glance at Talia, who meets my gaze with a troubled expression. "What about your crops and livestock?" I ask. "Are they dying, like in the other villages?"

The man shakes his head. "No. Our crops are fine. Our livestock are fine. It's just... us."

"What about your water?" I press. "Does it taste off?"

Again, he shakes his head. "The well's clean. Everything should be fine, but it isn't."

His voice drops to a whisper. "It's like something's inside us, crawling into our minds and twisting us."

I nod slowly, trying to piece together the puzzle. There's no pattern, no consistency, just chaos.

The man looks up at me, his eyes heavy with despair. "I appreciate you coming," he says finally, his tone soft but firm. "But there's nothing you can do here. Please... leave us."

The girl looks at her father, her lips trembling as if she wants to protest, but she doesn't say a word.

I glance at my companions and stand, nodding to the man. "If you ever change your mind, send word. We'll come back."

He doesn't respond, just stares at the table as we make our way to the door. As we step outside, the oppressive silence of the village greets us once more. Nikko clings to my arm, and Talia keeps her bow close at hand.

"What's happening here?" Talia asks quietly as we head back to the speeder.

I don't answer right away, my thoughts swirling with questions. Something dark is spreading through these villages, something we don't yet understand.

⚔⚔⚔⚔⚔

We set up camp in a quiet meadow under a blanket of stars. The villagers' coldness forced us to find shelter outdoors, and the air is thick with tension. The fire crackles, casting dancing shadows on our faces as we sit in a circle. Nikko listens intently as we discuss the strange occurrences we've been witnessing.

"I've never seen people act so strangely," Talia says, her brows furrowed. "It's like they're not themselves anymore."

Apollo, standing vigilantly by the fire, nods. "Their behavior is inconsistent with typical human responses to distress. It's as if something or someone is manipulating them."

"I can't help but think about the Shadowfell we encountered," I say, glancing around the group. "Its presence... it felt malevolent. Could it be spreading its influence?"

"Do you think it's behind all this?" Talia asks, her voice steady but laced with worry.

"I think it's very likely," I reply. "Once we finish these remaining missions, we need to head to the capital and request an audience with the king. He needs to know what's happening."

The fire dims as we settle into our tents for the night. I drift into a restless sleep, only to find myself enveloped in darkness. A sinister voice begins whispering to me, its tone dripping with malice.

"They doubt you, Ryu. They will betray you, just as Eldrin and his companions have. It is only a matter of time."

"No," I argue, trying to push the voice away. "They trust me."

The voice chuckles darkly. "Trust? They see you as a threat. You are not worthy of their trust or love. You failed before; you will fail again."

Images of Lyra's death flash before me, and I feel a wave of guilt crash over me. "I won't let it happen again," I whisper, my resolve wavering.

"Oh, but it will Ryu. You cannot run from your destined fate."

I jolt awake, my heart pounding. I find myself over Talia, my vibro blade pressed against her neck. She is still asleep, unaware of the danger. Nikko lies beside her, deep in sleep. Horrified, I drop the blade and stumble out of the tent, my breathing frantic.

"What's happening to me?" I mutter, tears streaming down my face. I collapse to my knees, my body shaking.

Talia stirs and wakes up, hearing my distress. She rushes out of the tent and kneels beside me. "Ryu, what's wrong? What happened?"

"I... I almost... I almost killed you," I choke out, my voice trembling. "I need to leave. You and Nikko aren't safe with me."

Talia places a comforting hand on my shoulder. "It wasn't you, Ryu. Something was influencing you."

I shake off her touch, the fear gripping my heart. "That's exactly why I need to go. I can't control it."

Nikko wakes up, her eyes wide with fear. "Papa, you promised you'd never leave me. Why do you want to go?"

Suddenly, the dark voice returns, louder and more insistent. "Kill them. Kill them all!"

"No!" I yell, trying to fight off the voice. "Get out of my head!"

⚔⚔⚔⚔⚔

Talia watches as he clutches his head, yelling at the unseen force. She steps forward cautiously. "Ryu, it's me, Talia. Please, calm down."

Ryu suddenly looks up, his motion unnatural. He ignites his lightsaber and raises his hand, using an invisible force to lift Talia off the ground. She gasps, struggling to breathe as the force chokes her.

Nikko screams, "Papa, stop! Please!"

Talia feels herself being pulled toward Ryu, the air growing thinner. Just as she starts to lose consciousness, a blue circle of energy hits Ryu from the side, breaking his concentration. He collapses to the ground, the lightsaber deactivating.

Talia falls to the ground, gasping for air. She looks up to see Apollo retracting its blaster back into its wrist. "Thank you, Apollo," she manages to say, her voice weak.

The droid nods as it steps forward and kneels before Ryu, checking on him.

"Is... is he-" Talia stutters but the droid shakes its head.

"I merely stunned him. He will be unconscious for several hours but otherwise he is unharmed."

Nikko rushes to Talia's side, tears streaming down her face. "What's wrong with Papa?"

Talia hugs her tightly, her mind racing. "I don't know, Nikko, but we'll figure it out. It has to be connected to the Shadowfell."

Talia nods, trying to think of a solution. "What can we do for him, Apollo?"

Apollo considers for a moment. "There is a mage in the Elven village of Lindórinan who has helped with nightmares before. Perhaps he can help Ryu again."

"Then that's where we'll go," Talia says, determination in her voice. She looks down at Nikko, who is still clinging to her. "We'll get help for him, I promise."

Nikko nods, still crying but holding on to hope. They quickly pack up the camp, with Apollo driving the speeder and Ryu lying unconscious in the wagon. Talia holds one of Ryu's hands, and Nikko holds the other, their minds filled with worry and determination.

⚔⚔⚔⚔⚔

The night air is cool as Talia, Nikko, and Apollo make their way into the village of Lindórinan. The city is serene, with quaint, ivy-covered cottages nestled among towering ancient trees. The cobblestone paths are illuminated by soft, glowing lanterns, casting a warm and inviting light. The air is filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the distant sound of a babbling brook. Talia let's out a sigh of relief seeing the city's inhabitants behave friendly towards them.

Apollo, carrying the unconscious Ryu on its back, leads the way through the village, its mechanical movements contrasting with the natural beauty around them. DP-7 stays hidden with the speeder bike outside the city, ensuring their transportation remains secure.

They arrive at a charming stone house with a thatched roof, the home of Elandor. Talia, her heart pounding with urgency, knocks on the wooden door. Growing impatient, she knocks harder and continuously until the door finally creaks open.

Elandor stands before them, his silver hair tousled from sleep and his piercing blue eyes squinting in the dim light. He is dressed in simple sleepwear, looking both weary and curious. "What brings you here at this hour?" he asks, his voice a mix of concern and irritation. His pointed ears and elegant features mark his Elven heritage.

Talia steps forward, her voice trembling with desperation. "Please, we need your help. Ryu... something's happened to him."

Elandor's eyes widen as he notices Apollo carrying Ryu's limp form. "Bring him inside," he says, his tone shifting to one of urgency.

They enter Elandor's home, a cozy yet spacious interior filled with bookshelves, mystical artifacts, and the faint glow of enchanted crystals. The air is thick with the scent of herbs and incense. Apollo gently lays Ryu down on a plush, well-worn couch. The room is warm, with a fire crackling in the hearth and soft rugs underfoot.

Elandor kneels beside Ryu, placing a hand on his forehead and closing his eyes. A soft, golden light emanates from his hand as he delves into Ryu's mind. Moments later, he opens his eyes, his expression grave. "Something dark and malevolent has latched onto him, lingering deep in his subconscious," Elandor says, his voice tinged with worry.

Talia's heart sinks. "It must be the Shadowfell," she whispers. "We encountered one, and since then, Ryu hasn't been himself."

Elandor nods solemnly. "It's feeding on his life force and using his guilt to manipulate him. He doesn't have much time."

Nikko's eyes fill with tears, and she clings to Talia, her small body trembling with fear. Talia feels a surge of hopelessness wash over her. "Is there anything you can do to help him?" she pleads.

Elandor shakes his head, his expression filled with regret. "This is beyond my abilities," he admits. "But there is someone who might be able to help."

Talia and Nikko's eyes light up with a glimmer of hope. "Who?" Talia asks urgently.

"The High Priestess of Lytharia," Elandor replies, rising to his feet. He quickly dons an overcoat and gestures for them to follow him. "She has the power to cleanse such darkness. We must hurry."

Without hesitation, they follow Elandor out into the night, the urgency of their mission driving them forward. The city of Lindórinan remains peaceful and undisturbed, unaware of the dire struggle unfolding within its borders.

Elandor leads them through the winding streets of Lindórinan, their destination looming ahead. The temple of Lytharia, the goddess of the moon, stands as a massive structure, its spires reaching toward the night sky. Moonlight bathes the temple in a soft, ethereal glow, making the white stone shimmer. As they approach, the intricately carved doors of the temple creak open, revealing an interior that is both grand and serene.

The main hall of the temple is vast, with marble floors that reflect the light of numerous candles and silver chandeliers hanging from the vaulted ceiling. The walls are adorned with tapestries depicting the phases of the moon and the legends of Lytharia. At the end of the hall stands a magnificent golden statue of Lytharia herself, depicted with her arms outstretched, welcoming all who seek her guidance. Her eyes seem to sparkle with a divine light, and her flowing robes appear almost lifelike in their detail.

A group of priests, dressed in silver and white robes, approach them. Their expressions are calm but curious. One of them steps forward and asks, "What brings you to the temple of Lytharia at this late hour?"

Elandor bows slightly and explains, "We seek the help of the High Priestess. My friend here is in grave danger, and only her divine intervention can save him."

The priests exchange glances, concern flickering in their eyes. "Please wait here," one of them says, before they disappear through a door to the side of the hall.

Talia paces anxiously, her eyes frequently darting to the unconscious Ryu still carried by Apollo. Nikko stands close to Talia, her eyes wide with worry as she watches her father, his breathing shallow and ragged.

After what feels like an eternity, the door opens, and the High Priestess steps out. She is a tall, graceful figure with long, raven colored hair that cascades down her back. Her eyes are a striking shade of violet, and she wears a flowing gown of white and silver, adorned with intricate patterns that seem to shimmer in the light. Her presence is both calming and commanding.

"Welcome," she says in a soft but firm voice. "I am Llamiryl Cainala, High Priestess of Lytharia. How may I assist you?"

Talia steps forward, her voice trembling with emotion. "Please, High Priestess, help our friend. His mind has been afflicted by something dark and powerful. A Shadowfell."

Llamiryl smiles gently and gestures for them to follow. "Come with me," she says, leading them to the base of the golden statue of Lytharia. "Lay him here," she instructs Apollo, indicating the feet of the statue.

Apollo carefully places Ryu on the ground. Llamiryl kneels beside him, her hand gently resting on his forehead. She closes her eyes and begins to murmur in Elvish, her voice a melodic chant. The air around them hums with a faint, mystical energy.

Talia watches anxiously, her heart pounding. "What are you doing?" she asks.

Llamiryl opens her eyes, looking deeply into Talia's. "To rid him of the Shadowfell's influence, we must enter his mind and confront the darkness there."

Talia's eyes widen. "How is that possible?"

"With the help of the goddess Lytharia," Llamiryl explains. "We will need to link hands, forming a circle of trust and unity. Talia, you will hold my hand, and everyone else must link hands."

Talia, Nikko, and Apollo quickly form a circle, linking hands. Llamiryl takes Talia's hand and places her other hand on Ryu's forehead. She begins to chant in Elvish once more, her voice rising and falling like a gentle wave.

Suddenly, Ryu jolts awake, his hand shooting up to grab Llamiryl's wrist. The motion startles everyone, and Llamiryl pulls back slightly, her eyes wide with surprise.

"Please," Ryu begs, his voice hoarse. "Don't... do this. I don't... want you... to see."

Talia steps forward, her voice firm. "If we don't, you'll die, Ryu. We have to do this."

Ryu shakes his head, his eyes filled with desperation. "Leave... me. It's better... this way."

"No," Talia says firmly. "You didn't leave me to the undead dragon, and you didn't leave Nikko to the bandits. We're not leaving you either."

Nikko clings to Talia, nodding vigorously. "We won't leave you, Papa."

Apollo stands resolute. "We are with you, Ryu."

Ryu's eyes flutter, and he falls unconscious once more. Llamiryl, regaining her composure, asks, "Is everyone ready?"

Talia takes a deep breath, feeling Nikko's small hand squeeze hers reassuringly. "We will save Papa, right?" Nikko asks, her voice trembling.

Talia nods, looking at Llamiryl. "Yes, we're ready."

Llamiryl places her hand on Ryu's forehead again and resumes her incantation. The light from her hand grows brighter and brighter, filling the room with a radiant glow. The light becomes so intense that it blinds Talia, and she feels herself being pulled into another realm.