The mist thickened as Prava, Rafael, and Allara followed the stream. Clear water ran over stones, reflecting tiny flickers of light that danced like fallen stars.
"Which way now?" Prava asked, her voice trembling slightly, though steadier with Rafael at her side.
Allara paused, scanning the forest. Twisting roots and tangled vines blocked the path.
"The heart of the power… lies deeper within. But the path does not open easily to anyone," she whispered.
Her hand touched a root, and a shiver of energy ran through her fingertips, sending a ripple through the air that all three could feel.
Then, a soft whisper echoed around them:
"Turn back… or move forward… the choice is yours…"
Rafael stepped closer to Prava, gripping her hand firmly.
"Don't be afraid. We face it together," he said, his voice steady and sure.
Prava nodded, feeling the tension in her muscles ease.
She sensed something pulling her forward, as if her own heart was responding to a call long forgotten.
A few steps further, the mist parted to reveal a radiant glow from a massive tree.
The light shone down on the surface of the water, forming the image of a young woman standing in the middle.
Her eyes were sorrowful, yet full of hope.
Her lips moved silently, though no sound emerged:
"Follow… me…"
Prava could not tear her eyes away, feeling as if she had been called by a name long forgotten.
Rafael felt the pull too.
"Who… is she?" he asked, though deep down he sensed the answer was closer than he could reach.
Allara turned to them, eyes unwavering.
"We have to go… but beware. Not everything you see is entirely true," she said.
As they approached the glow, the mist trembled, like the forest itself was breathing, controlling every movement.
The sound of flowing water blended with a faint, melodic whisper, the song of the past, and every heartbeat responded in kind.
Prava drew a deep breath, knowing that the next step could change her life—and the lives of those beside her—forever.
"Let's go," she whispered, a newfound courage blossoming within her.
Rafael and Allara flanked her.
The three figures moved forward, merging with the mist and the song of the forest.
And at last, the path to the heart of the power… revealed itself.