The flickering candles cast long shadows across the tower's dimly lit study as Marcus, Kira, and Lyra gathered around a large wooden table covered in scrolls and dusty tomes. The air was thick with the smell of old parchment and magical incense, the atmosphere electric with anticipation.
"Alright, let's see what we're dealing with," Lyra said, unrolling a scroll that had seen better days. Its surface shimmered with faded runes, and Marcus leaned in closer, intrigued.
"This text mentions a dark force known as the Shadowbane," Lyra explained, her finger tracing the ancient script. "It's said to be a collective of dark mages seeking to disrupt the natural balance of magic for their gain. If they're targeting the Heart of the Forest, it could mean disaster for all of Evershade—and beyond."
Kira crossed her arms, her brow furrowing. "And how do we stop them? We don't even know where to start looking."
