---
Chapter 2: Shadows of the Forgotten
The cold mist curled around Elian's feet as he crossed the threshold of Eldrath, leaving behind the crumbling ruins of his home. The village faded into a blur of gray shapes, swallowed by the relentless fog. Ahead lay the Endless Forest, a place spoken of only in fearful whispers — a realm where time bent and shadows breathed.
Legends told of the forest as a prison for lost souls and broken promises. Few who entered ever returned, and those who did spoke of twisted paths and voices that tore at the mind. But Elian's heart, though weighed by pain, was driven by something stronger than fear — the hope to find the Light whispered on the chapel's wind.
As he ventured deeper, the world changed. The trees grew tall and black, their gnarled branches clawing at the sky like ancient hands. The air grew thick, heavy with sorrow and something darker, something alive.
A sudden chill ran down Elian's spine as a figure emerged from the shadows. Cloaked in ragged cloth, the stranger's eyes glowed faintly beneath a hood. The figure spoke, voice like dry leaves rustling:
"Why does a broken man walk into the maw of despair?"
Elian met the gaze, steady despite the fear rising within. "I seek the Light — to mend the pain that kills me from within."
The figure's lips twisted into a grim smile. "Many seek the Light, but the Darkness here feeds on your pain. You must ask yourself — what price are you willing to pay?"
Before Elian could answer, the ground beneath trembled, and a haunting chorus of wails rose around them. Shapes formed in the fog — twisted spirits bound by ancient agony, their hollow eyes pleading for release.
Elian's heart hammered, but the pain was still there, a steady drum urging him forward. "I will pay any price," he whispered.
The stranger nodded, extending a hand wrapped in shadow. "Then follow me. The path to the Light is paved with sacrifice. The pain of your heart may be your only guide."
With a final glance at the fading remnants of Eldrath behind him, Elian took the stranger's hand and stepped further into the darkness — into the unknown.
---