The Guardian of Herkleton Oaks

Chapter 12: Umbra's Era

As Roger's heart sank with the weight of unrequited feelings, an unexpected ripple of sadness began to weave through the Creek. The usually lively and vibrant atmosphere became tinged with a somber hue as if the very air echoed the melancholy of the bridge troll.

Craig, J.P., and Kelsey sensing the palpable sadness, gathered near the stump, exchanging concerned glances. The once-thriving energy of the Creek now seemed to wane under the shadow of Roger's heartache.

With a shared understanding of the Creek's interconnectedness, the trio decided to seek the wisdom of the witches. Craig, J.P., and Kelsey approached Courtney and Tabitha, who were known for their poetic insights.

"A troll's heart, his soul spurned to cry, retrieve to the abode of the raven, where shadows lie," Courtney recited in her enchanting tone.

Tabitha added, "Roger's sadness has permeated the Creek, and only in the embrace of Raven's shadows can he find solace."

Armed with this mystical guidance, the trio set out on a journey to Raven's abode. The witches' words echoed in their minds, adding an air of mystery to the path ahead.

As they approached Raven's house, a chill ran down their spines. The dwelling, with its gothic architecture and haunting allure, stood like a sentinel in the moonlit night. The windows were adorned with dark curtains that seemed to sway with an unseen breeze, and ivy vines clung to the stone walls, adding to the eerie ambiance.

"So that's where Raven lives!" Kelsey exclaimed, her voice a mix of awe and trepidation.

Craig nodded, his curiosity overcoming the shivers that ran down his spine. "Let's go and find out what's happening. We need to help Roger and bring back the light to the Creek."

The trio ventured closer, their footsteps echoing on the cobbled path. The air seemed to thicken with each step, carrying a sense of both anticipation and foreboding. The shadows cast by Raven's house danced like specters, inviting them to unravel the mysteries hidden within.

As they approached the door, Craig took a deep breath, summoning the courage to face whatever awaited them within the gothic haunted house. The journey to retrieve Roger's heart from the abode of the raven had only just begun, and the Creek, with its tales of friendship and magic, held secrets that were about to be unveiled in the shadows that lingered beyond Raven's doorstep.