The legend of Great Howl

The City of Light

Aela is still trying to process what has just transpired. The Keeper asks if she's okay, and Aela nods, still mute. The Keeper smiles and adds, "Come with me, and I will show you around the city."

Aela follows the Keeper down the city streets. She is astounded by the towering structures and lively marketplace. The inhabitants of the city appear kind and inviting, greeting the Keeper with smiles and waving. As they walk, the Keeper informs Aela about the history of the city and its inhabitants.

"We are a peaceful people," the Keeper explains. As they stand before the tree, the Keeper informs Aela that it is dying. The enchantment that keeps it alive is diminishing, and it will eventually wither and die. Aela is taken aback by the news and begs whether anything can be done to save the tree. The Keeper claims that there is only one method to save the tree, and it is not an easy one.

Aela inquires about what it is, and the Keeper informs her that she must locate the four elemental crystals strewn throughout the universe. These crystals are the source of the tree's power, and it cannot exist without them.

According to the Keeper, the crystals are concealed in dangerous regions, and Aela will face numerous obstacles in her quest to find them. However, she believes that Aela has the strength and fortitude to achieve. She asks Aela if she's ready to start the mission, and she hesitates. But then she looks at the tree, its leaves turning brown, and she realises she has to do this. She takes a big breath and declares, "I'm ready."

The Keeper smiles and nods. "Let us begin then," she says. "I will lead you as far as I can, but the voyage is yours alone. You must follow your heart and trust your instincts. "Are you ready?"

Aela takes another big breath before nodding. "Yes," she answers. "I am ready."

The Keeper touches Aela's hand, causing a warm, tingling sensation to travel throughout her body. "This is my gift to you," the Keeper explains. "It will give you strength and courage on your journey."

Aela feels a burst of energy and resolve, and she is confident that she is prepared to confront anything that comes her way. With a resolute nod, she embarks on her journey, leaving the city behind. The voyage is lengthy and demanding, and Aela meets numerous challenges along the way. She travels over mountains and deserts, encounters storms and strange monsters, and even becomes lost in the shadow beast's gloomy forest. But she never gives up, and her determination helps her get through.

After months of searching, she finally finds the first crystal, which is concealed deep in a mountain cave. The gem emits a magnificent light, and Aela feels its power fill her with strength. She takes the crystal and sets it in the tiny pouch she's been carrying before continuing on her trek.

As she walks, Aela considers the residents of the city and how they rely on her to save their homes. She feels a weight of responsibility on her shoulders, but she knows she must remain strong and persevere. She recalls the Keeper's words and the trust she has in her. She considers the task ahead and the hurdles she will encounter, but she continues going, determined to succeed.

And suddenly she notices it. In the distance, a tower of light stands out like a beacon in the darkness. She knows here is where the next crystal is, and her heart is full of optimism. However, when she approaches the tower, she realises something is awry. There is an unsettling silence, with no signs of life. She reaches the tower and cautiously opens the door. Inside, she discovers the crystal, which is dark and motionless. She reaches out to touch it, and as her hand meets the crystal, an image appears in her head.

She notices a dark figure standing at the base of the tower. The figure raises its hand, and a dark cloud develops around the crystal, blocking its light. The apparition vanishes, leaving the crystal in complete darkness. Aela gasped and jerked her hand back. She looks around, but the tower is vacant. With a horrible feeling in her gut, she understands what she needs to do. She must continue her search and locate the remaining crystals before the shadowy figure darkens them as well.

Aela leaves the tower, her heart weary yet unwavering. As she goes away, she notices a light in the distance, which comes from the trees. She approaches the light and discovers a clearing full of little creatures. They're little and winged, with bright eyes and kind smiles. They encircle her, and as their small hands touch her, she feels calm and warm. One of the animals speaks, its tone like a gentle breeze. "We have heard of your quest, and we have been waiting for you," it goes on to add. "We can help you, but first, you must help us."

Aela nods, and the thing proceeds. "Our home is under assault by a malevolent force that wishes to destroy us. If it succeeds, the light of the world will be extinguished. But if you can find the forest's heart and restore its light, you will be able to save both us and our home."

Aela looks around, seeing the creatures' anxious expressions. She realises that she must aid them if she wants to save the gems and the city. She turns to face the creature that spoke. "I will help you," she offers. "But first, tell me how to find the heart of the forest."

The creature smiles, and its eyes sparkle. "The core of the forest is hidden, but it can be discovered if you follow your heart. Close your eyes and listen to the forest song. It will lead you to the heart, where you can restore the light."

Aela shuts her eyes and gradually begins to hear a faint sound. It's the sound of birds chirping, leaves rustling in the breeze, and water babbling over rocks. She follows the sound, allowing it to lead her into the woodland. She walks for what feels like hours, but time appears to slow and stretch out. Finally, she senses a shift in the air, and the singing grows louder and clearer. She opens her eyes to find herself in a clearing with a pool of clean water in the centre. She knows that this is where the forest's heart is.

As she moves closer to the ocean.