The forest loomed ahead, its twisted branches reaching into the night sky. Thomas felt the weight of the Shadow Blade at his side, excitement and dread swirling within him.

“Stay close,” Kejo urged as they ventured deeper. The moon illuminated their path, but shadows whispered secrets at the edges of their vision.

“Think we’ll find all five shards tonight?” Kejo asked.

“I hope so,” Thomas replied. “But I need to uncover what happened to my parents.”

“Just promise you’ll be careful,” Kejo said, glancing around.

They paused at a stream, the moonlight shimmering on the water. Suddenly, a rustling sound broke the stillness. Thomas froze, instinct kicking in.

“Who goes there?” he called, readying the Shadow Blade.

From the darkness stepped a cloaked figure, revealing a face marked by scars. “I am Alys, a seeker of the shards. I sensed your approach.”

“What do you want with us?” Kejo asked, wary.

“I seek the same truth,” Alys replied. “But to collect the shards, you must prove your worth. Your first trial is courage. Are you ready to face your fears?”

Thomas exchanged a glance with Kejo. “We’re ready.”

“Then follow me,” Alys instructed, leading them into the forest’s depths.

Soon, they reached a fork in the path. One side was shrouded in mist; the other glowed faintly.

“Choose wisely,” Alys warned. “The mist leads to fear; the glow to clarity.”

“We need to face it,” Thomas said. “I want to know the truth.”

“Then we go into the mist,” Kejo said, determination in his eyes.

As they stepped into the mist, it enveloped them. Memories crashed over Thomas—images of his parents fading away. He stumbled, fear rising within him.

“Stay focused!” Kejo urged.

Taking a deep breath, Thomas gripped the Shadow Blade. “I can do this.”

With renewed purpose, he opened his eyes, ready to confront whatever lay ahead. The mist swirled, revealing shadows of his past—the dark figure that had taken his parents.

“Face your fear, Thomas!” Alys’s voice broke through. “Only then will you find your strength.”

As the shadows closed in, Thomas steeled himself, ready for the hunt—both for the shards and for the truth of his past.