My boots sank into the damp earth as I trudged alongside Gabriel, Roman, and Avery, our eyes scanning the mist-shrouded forest for any sign of the dark faeries. The silence between us was heavy with disappointment - we had been searching for hours, yet found nothing but shadows and whispers. A feeling of unease gnawed at me, and I couldn't shake the thought that we were being watched.
"Enough," I said finally, my voice strained. "We're getting nowhere. We must return to the Celestial Citadel."
Gabriel's brow furrowed in concern. "But Nikolai, what about the shadowstone? We can't give up so easily."
"Perhaps we need more guidance," I replied, a plan forming in my mind. "I'll seek an audience with the Oracle. She may be able to direct us better."
"Are you sure, Nikolai?" Roman asked, his
