As they journeyed deeper into the Heartwood Forest, the trees grew taller and the air thickened with an otherworldly energy."We're close," Elara said, consulting the map.Suddenly, a magnificent tree came into view, its trunk glowing with a soft, ethereal light."The Heartwood Tree," Prince Cyrus breathed.Rae felt an inexplicable connection to the tree, as if its power resonated deep within her.Elara nodded. "The first artifact is hidden within the tree's heart."But as they approached, a riddle appeared on the trunk:"Where shadows dance, light reveals
The key to unlock the Heartwood's seals."
Rae pondered the riddle, and then, a burst of insight struck her."The answer lies in the shadows!" she exclaimed.Using her newfound magic, Rae manipulated the shadows, revealing a hidden compartment.Inside, a glittering crystal lay waiting."The Heartwood Crystal," Elara said, eyes shining.Rae felt a surge of triumph, but their victory was short-lived.A dark figure emerged from the shadows – the Shadow King himself."You may have claimed the crystal," he snarled, "but the true battle has only just begun."And with that, the Shadow King vanished, leaving Rae, Prince Cyrus, and Elara to ponder the prophecy's next step.