Kael stood before the Heartwood Tree, Thorne beside him. "Your first trial approaches, Kael. Are you prepared?"
Kael steeled himself, recalling the Prophecy and his newfound skills. "I'm ready."
Thorne nodded. "In the nearby valley, a pack of Shadow Wolves terrorizes a village. Tame them, and you'll prove your worth."
Kael descended into the valley, the air thick with the scent of damp earth and fear. The villagers cowered, trapped between the wolves' snarls and the treacherous terrain.
Kael focused on the pack's alpha, a majestic beast with eyes like dark lanterns. He resonated with the wolf's fury, empathizing with its hunger and frustration.
Slowly, Kael asserted his authority, channeling the Heartwood's energy. The alpha wolf's gaze locked onto his, and Kael sensed a spark of understanding.
The pack, sensing their leader's submission, ceased their attack. Kael stood tall, his connection to the wolves deepening.
Villagers emerged, awestruck. "You've tamed the Shadow Wolves!"
Kael smiled, weary but triumphant. Thorne appeared, pride etched on his face.
"Well done, Kael. Your gift grows stronger."
But as Kael turned to leave, he noticed a strange symbol etched into the alpha wolf's forehead – a mark of dark magic.
"Thorne, what does this mean?"
Thorne's expression turned grave. "Malakai's influence spreads. The darkness seeks to claim Eridoria's creatures."
Kael's determination burned brighter. "I won't let that happen."
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