Dawn of the Unknown

Chapter 5: The Despair of the Land

As they searched for days through the dense undergrowth and winding paths of the ancient forest, their quest led them deeper into the heart of mystery. When they finally stood before the legendary Heartwood, the oldest and wisest tree in the forest, its ancient voice resonated with both wisdom and concern.

"You seek answers that even I cannot fully provide," 

The Heartwood intoned solemnly, its voice a deep rumble that seemed to vibrate through the very ground. 

"The portal you speak of was opened by a wizard of great power, a master of ancient arts beyond our understanding. Its purpose and its origin remain shrouded in mystery."

Adelia, Mathilde, and Avril were struck with astonishment.

"How did you know what we seek?" 

Adelia asked the Heartwood.

"My senses extend through every tree in this forest. My roots are entwined with each one of them,"

The Heartwood replied.

"And the tree spirits?" 

Adelia inquired.

"The tree spirits and dryads are the guardians of this forest. With one of them fallen to corruption, the forest grows weak. The only way to restore them is to reestablish the balance between the realms," 

The Heartwood answered solemnly.

Adelia, her brow furrowed with worry, exchanged a glance with Mathilde and Avril. 

"Can the portal be closed?" 

She asked, her voice tinged with urgency.

"Every door must be opened, but remember, every door can also be closed," 

The Heartwood intoned solemnly, its words echoing with timeless wisdom.

Its branches rustled softly, emitting a mournful sigh that echoed through the clearing.

"I sense the presence of creatures from beyond, growing stronger with each passing day," 

It replied. 

"Unknown and powerful beings, born of the ominous portal, now threaten our world."

Adelia's grip tightened on her rapier, her gaze flickering with determination. 

"What must we do?"

The Heartwood's ancient voice carried a weight of responsibility. 

"To close the portal, you must seek the Sourcestone," 

It continued, its tone grave yet resolute. 

"It is a relic of primordial power, hidden within the deepest reaches of the enchanted forest. Only its ancient magic has the potential to seal the rift and banish the invading creatures back to their realm."

Avril nodded, absorbing the gravity of their mission. 

"How can we find the Sourcestone?"

Before the Heartwood could answer their question, a sudden disturbance shattered the tranquility of the clearing. 

A figure cloaked in dark robes materialized with an ominous presence. Without hesitation, the mysterious figure unleashed a powerful dark attack that struck the ancient tree. The Heartwood trembled as its bark blackened and its leaves withered, corrupted by the malevolent energy.

Adelia gasped in horror, her hand instinctively gripping her rapier as she moved to shield Mathilde and Avril. 

"Who are you!?"