Dragon queen and her mage

The Enigmatic Guardian: Unveiling Shadows

As the day comes to a close, Tianna finds solace in the comfort of her bed. Gazing at the ceiling, she lets out a deep sigh, feeling the weight of the day slowly melt away. With a contented smile, she turns to her side and peacefully drifts off into a well-deserved slumber. 

Tianna's eyes snap open, her surroundings transformed into a nightmarish scene of chaos and destruction. The once-familiar room is now engulfed in flames, the air thick with smoke and the piercing cries of terror. A voice pierces through the chaos, calling out to her. She frantically searches for her friends, only to find them injured and clinging to each other for support. "What's happening?" Tianna's voice trembles with fear as she desperately runs towards them, but with each step, they seem to slip further away. Time stretches on as she runs, her heart pounding in her chest, until suddenly, everything turns black. And then, she awakens.

Her eyes meet a breath-taking sight, a serene and tranquil landscape. Towering trees stand tall and proud, the gentle breeze carrying whispers of peace. A crystal-clear stream flows, its ethereal blue glow captivating her senses. Vibrant green grass stretches as far as the eye can see, leading her down a stone path towards an unknown destination. As she walks, the birds sing in harmony, their melodies filling the air. And then, a figure emerges from the shadows, their voice soft yet powerful. "Follow the right path, and you shall be spared from disaster. But beware of doubt, for it shall lead to ruin," the figure warns.

Tianna's curiosity piqued, she musters the courage to ask, "Who are you?" The figure replies, "I am the warning, a guide in the realm of actions. Trust not in mere words, but in the deeds that follow them." Before Tianna can unravel the mystery further, she jolts awake, her body drenched in sweat. "What was that?" she whispers, the echoes of her dream lingering in her mind. The intensity of the experience leaves her breathless, yearning for answers that seem just out of reach. As the echoes of the mysterious dream still linger in her mind, an unexpected interruption shakes her from her thoughts. The sound of forceful knocks and the clamour of familiar voices pierce through the air, leaving her intrigued and curious. Hastily donning a gown, she rushes towards the door, eager to uncover the source of this commotion. And there they are, her loyal companions, Rhea and Cleric, their urgency palpable. 

"Come on," Rhea insists, her voice filled with determination. "We have a quest to embark on!" As she catches a glimpse of her dishevelled appearance and the perspiration glistening on her forehead, Rhea tactfully suggests, "I won't inquire about the cause of your perspiration, but do take a refreshing shower and prepare yourself. Time is of the essence, Tianna. But don't tarry too long!" With a sigh, Rhea conveys the importance of swift action.

As they embark on their quest, Cleric's music fills the air, creating a familiar atmosphere that they've grown to appreciate. "So how long do you think this would take?" Cleric asks, his instrument still in hand. "Well, if you pay attention, hopefully not too long," Rhea scolds him, emphasizing the importance of their mission. "Music is important!" Cleric snaps back, defending his passion. Tianna giggles at their playful bickering, finding joy in their camaraderie. "Do you think I can make a portal there?" Tianna asks, her curiosity piqued. "Well, we do have the location-" Rhea begins, but before she can finish, a sudden portal appears by Tianna's side. "Let's go!" Tianna exclaims playfully. Rhea sighs, knowing there's no turning back, and they all step into the swirling purple portal. As they journey through, Cleric quickly takes a potion to combat his motion sickness, determined not to let it hinder their adventure.

Excitement fills the air as Tianna swiftly closes the portal, revealing a snowy landscape. Spotting a nearby cave, they rush towards it, wary of a potential snow blizzard. Once safely inside, Tianna uses her magic to ignite a torch that Cleric had in his bag. "Great! Now, let's ace this quest and make our way back to the Giving Tree," Rhea declares, expressing her disdain for the harsh weather. They all agree, bracing themselves for whatever challenges lie ahead, ready to face them head-on.

With nerve-racking giggles and rustling all around, Tianna takes action, casting a blasting fire spell that catches the torches on the cave walls, illuminating the source of the noise: goblins. There were around 50 of them, lurking in the darkness. Startled, Cleric drops the torch while Rhea swiftly retrieves her hidden daggers from under her caped hood. Tianna summons five pentagrams, each representing a different element, as Cleric wields his trusty Luck Blade. "This will only take 5 minutes," Rhea grins confidently, ready to face the goblin horde. Rhea dances through the shadows, striking fear into her enemies. Cleric's nervous smile reveals his awareness of Rhea's enjoyment. Tianna, exhausted but determined, unleashes a spell that disintegrates five goblins. Cleric charges ahead with a battle cry, swinging his sword with all his might. Tianna remains vigilant, casting fire bolts and lightning strikes. "Why are there so many?!" she cries out, receiving no answer. A gremlin grabs her arm, but she swiftly counters with a powerful vine spell. Overwhelmed, she falls to the ground, expecting pain. But instead, a figure appears, swiftly slaughtering the gremlins. Growls and huffs fill the air. Tianna rises, thinking it's Rhea, but something is off. The figure, tall and strong, with a thick tail and horns, vanishes before she can react. 

Rhea and Cleric emerge victorious, with Rhea disappointed by the feeble resistance on the left side and Cleric proudly claiming the right. Tianna, lost in her thoughts, acknowledges the completion of the task. Rhea, weary of the realm, suggests using a portal instead of trudging back to the Giving Tree. Hungry, Tianna asks Cleric if he has food, as she plans to indulge before venturing through any portal. Cleric, sensing a shift in the atmosphere, probes Tianna about what might have occurred. However, Tianna dismisses the question and focuses on devouring the nourishment Cleric provides.

Tianna's mind races with thoughts, questioning whether it was truly Rhea or a cunning demon in disguise. Determined to find answers, she rises and conjures a swirling, twisting portal. Without hesitation, Cleric and Rhea step into the mysterious gateway, followed closely by Tianna. As she emerges on the other side, a wave of nausea washes over Cleric, causing him to bend over a nearby bin, emptying the contents of his stomach. Astonished by the swift reaction, Tianna exclaims, "Already?" seeking confirmation from Rhea, who responds with a knowing nod and a mysterious hum.

With Cleric back to full health, the triumphant trio sets off to the king, brimming with satisfaction over their accomplished quest. The king, recognizing their valour, bestows upon them a well-deserved reward. As they resume their usual routine, Tianna's mind continues to grapple with the lingering mystery of her saviour's identity. If it wasn't Rhea, then who was this courageous soul willing to risk everything for a mere stranger? The question tugs at Tianna's thoughts, leaving her eager to uncover the truth.