Chapter Five: The Guardian of the Forest
The growl grew louder, vibrating through the ground. Amanda clutched Elira's hand tighter, her knees trembling. The glowing eyes moved closer until a massive shape emerged from the shadows.
It was a creature unlike anything Amanda had ever seen. Its body was shaped like a wolf, but larger than a horse, with fur that shifted colors like smoke. Antlers branched from its head, tangled with vines and moss. Its eyes glowed the same gold as the pool—but sharper, hungrier.
Amanda gasped. "What is that?"
Elira's face was calm, but her voice was firm. "The Guardian. It protects this place from those who don't belong."
Amanda's throat went dry. "Then why is it coming for us?"
"Because you crossed the water. You woke me. And now…" Elira looked at her steadily.
The Guardian growled again, lowering its head. Amanda stumbled back, but Elira held her ground.
"Do not run," Elira whispered. "It will only chase you. Stand tall."
Amanda swallowed hard, every instinct telling her to flee, but she forced her feet to stay planted. Her heart thudded painfully in her chest as the Guardian stepped closer, its hot breath washing over her like a storm.
The creature lowered its great antlered head until its glowing eyes met Amanda's. For a long moment, the world seemed to freeze—the forest silent, the air heavy with waiting.
Then, to Amanda's shock, the Guardian spoke. Its voice was deep, rumbling like the roots of the earth.
"Child of two worlds," it said. "Why have you come?"
Amanda's lips trembled, but she found her voice. "I… I don't know. I just… fell through the water ."
The Guardian's eyes narrowed, and Amanda felt its gaze pierce straight through her, weighing her heart.
Elira leaned closer, whispering, "Tell the truth, Amanda. It listens to truth."
Amanda took a shaky breath. "I wanted… something more. I wanted adventure. I wanted to know if the stories were real."
The Guardian let out a long, rumbling sound—half-growl, half-laugh. "Then you shall have your answer."
It raised its head, stamping its great paw into the earth. The ground split open, and from the crack, a path of light spread through the forest.
"Walk the path," the Guardian commanded. "If you reach the end, you may stay. If not… the door will close forever."
Amanda stared at the glowing trail, her pulse racing. She glanced at Elira, who nodded.
"This is your test," Elira said softly.
Amanda gripped her hand tighter. "Then let's do it. Together."
And with that, Amanda stepped onto the path of light, the Guardian watching silently as the forest swallowed them deeper into its secrets.