PROLOGUE
342 Words
The atmosphere was thick and cloudy. The weather looked unfriendly as heavy whistling winds swept across the land. Dry leaves flew wildly while tree branches waved violently. The creaking sounds of night creatures echoed through the forest, followed by loud strikes of thunder.
After some minutes, rain began to fall in tiny drops. Within seconds, it turned into a heavy downpour.
A shadowy figure could be seen running through the woods toward the entrance of a cave. He wore a dark hood that covered his entire body, protecting him from the rain. Reaching the cave, he stepped inside and walked deeper into the darkness.
Inside the cave, burning sticks hung at different angles on the walls, their flames providing dim light.
“I’m back,” the man said.
An old man sat with his back facing him.
“So... should I take this as a sign that you are finally ready to pay whatever price it takes?” the old man asked in a cracked voice.
“Yes. I’m ready to do anything to protect this realm and my children. One day, they will be able to protect themselves when I am gone,” the man replied as he slowly removed his hood.
The old man gently turned to face him.
“Well then, come forward,” he said while picking up an ancient-looking book beside him.
“Take this. I have already prepared the spell. All you need to do is let them touch it. But when the appointed time comes... you will be wiped from existence.”
The old man stretched the book toward him.
“Thank you. I promise to do everything in my power to protect everyone and keep evil far from our dwelling,” the man said as he accepted the book.
“I pray you do so,” the old man replied softly. “May the spirits be with you.”
Thunder roared outside once more as the flames inside the cave flickered violently... signaling the beginning of a fate that would change the realm forever.
- Writer
