The Shadow Knight lowered his blade, and his voice softened. "I am bound to this realm by a curse. Long ago, I betrayed my kingdom, and darkness claimed me as penance. I protect those who cannot protect themselves, but I cannot step into the light again."
Elias's heart pounded. "Why show yourself to me then?"
"Because the darkness grows stronger," the knight said. "A creature stirs in the north—an ancient evil. Soon, the village will burn if no one stops it."
Elias swallowed. The thought of facing such darkness was terrifying, yet he felt a strange connection to this mysterious figure.