The deeper I ventured into the woods, the more the atmosphere changed. It was as if the trees whispered secrets, and shadows danced just out of sight. I focused, using my powers to sense any nearby beings.
"Hello?" I called out, my voice echoing softly. "Any nymphs in the area? Just looking for some help here!"
Suddenly, a shimmering figure emerged from behind a tree—a nymph with cascading green hair and vibrant eyes that sparkled like sunlight filtering through leaves.
"You called for us?" she said, her voice melodic and soothing.
"Uh, yes! I'm Arion," I stammered, instantly captivated. "We're gathering allies to fight a corrupt king. We could really use your magic."
She tilted her head, her expression thoughtful. "The king you speak of has cast a dark shadow over our lands. We will help, but know this: we nymphs are bound by nature, and we will fight fiercely."
"Perfect! You'll fit right in," I said, feeling a surge of hope. "What's your name?"
"I am Elowen," she replied with a smile that could light up the darkest corners of the forest. "But you may call me your ally, for now."
With Elowen by my side, we moved through the woods, and I couldn't help but feel that this was the beginning of something extraordinary. The connection between us was undeniable.
But just as we were about to return to the village, the ground trembled beneath us. I looked up to see a dark cloud gathering overhead, a sinister aura creeping through the trees.
"Elowen, what's happening?" I asked, panic rising in my chest.
"The king's forces are near," she said, her voice laced with urgency. "We must return quickly!"
As we raced back to the village, I felt the weight of my glasses pressing against my nose. I concentrated, trying to sense the intentions of the approaching soldiers. Their thoughts were dark and twisted—fear, hatred, and a singular focus on destruction.