IN THE SHADOWS OF HEARTSTONE

CHAPTER ONE

LUNA

Numb. As I stood there, paralyzed with grief, I watched in horror as my father's lifeless body crumpled to the ground. My body froze with tears rolling down my face unable to move or speak, as I saw his body fall onto the ground with a loud thud ringing in my ears. I could not gather the strength and courage to fight for him. What could I have done?
I was a coward,weak and was shocked.

Even four years later, the memory of that fateful day still haunts me. I'm tormented by the thought of what I could have done to prevent it. The guilt and self-blame linger, refusing to let me find peace. I'm trapped in this endless nightmare, reliving the moment he fell, the moment my world shattered.

Overwhelming grief consumes me as I stand alone in this desolate world. My father, my rock, my everything - gone.

Today, a full moon day like it was when my father was killed. I vowed that day to avenge his death on that full moon night under the silvery gaze of it, I stand tall, my heart ablaze with unyielding determination. Four years of training, of sweat and tears, of sacrifice and struggle, have led me to this moment. I raise my eyes to the lunar sky, and vow:
"By the light of this moon, I swear to avenge my father's brutal murder. I will not rest until those responsible are brought to their knees, until justice is served, and until my father's memory is honored." I have repeated this vow every day since that fateful night.

The moon's gentle beam illuminates my face, casting an eerie glow on my resolute features. I feel its power coursing through my veins, fueling my resolve, and strengthening my will.

"I have walked the path of shadows, mastering the arts of combat, strategy, and deception. I have studied my enemies, learned their weaknesses, and waited for the perfect moment to strike. That moment is now."

With every word, my determination grows, my voice echoing through the night air. The full moon bears witness to my oath, a silent sentinel in the darkness.

"I will not falter, I will not fail. I will rise, a force of vengeance, and bring those responsible to their knees. By the light of this moon, I swear it."

I've honed my skills. My body is a finely-tuned machine, capable of withstanding the harshest conditions. My mind is a razor-sharp blade, slicing through doubt and fear.

My resolve has only grown stronger with each passing day. I've sacrificed everything - even my own identity - for this singular purpose. I am now a ghost, a whisper, a shadow of vengeance.My enemies will soon face the full force of my wrath.

Seated in the eerie glow of the enchanted forest, I felt a gentle hand upon my shoulder. I knew I didn't need to turn and look, for I recognized the touch. It could only be Bri, my constant companion and the only friend I had ever truly trusted. Who had been by my side through every trial, aiding me in every endeavor. She could shape shift and could adop the form of any living creature, be it animal or human.

Bri's gentle grip on my shoulder spoke volumes. It was a nocturnal ritual, a silent vow of unity in our pursuit of retribution. A shiver ran down my spine, not from the chill, but from anticipation. I was ready. No, not just ready - eager. The time for hesitation was over.
As the last notes of a distant serenade faded, I knew it was time. "Tomorrow," I murmured, "we'll begin."

To be continued...