Aethereia's moon dipped into the horizon, casting a silver glow over the crumbling spires of Eldrid Castle. Within its ancient walls, a lone figure stood vigil. Arinthal Moonwhisper, last scion of a legendary bloodline, gazed out upon the fading light.

"The time of reckoning approaches," Arinthal whispered to the shadows. "Our realm's balance falters, and darkness gathers."

As the final Moonwhisper, Arinthal bore the weight of his family's legacy: guardians of Aethereia's mystical forces. For centuries, they had woven dreams into reality, maintaining harmony between light and darkness.

But the threads of fate were unraveling.

Arinthal's eyes fell upon a young apprentice, Kael, sleeping fitfully in the castle's great hall. The boy's potential was vast, yet untrained. Arinthal's heart ached, knowing he would not live to guide Kael's journey.

With trembling hands, Arinthal inscribed a final message on a parchment:

"To Kael, heir of Moonwhisper,

Seek Lyra, Oracle of Luminaria.

Claim your legacy, restore balance.

Beware the shadows' whispers.

May the moon's light guide you."

As the moon vanished beneath the horizon, Arinthal's strength waned. With a final glance at Kael, he vanished into the darkness, leaving behind a whisper:

"The Dreamweaver's journey begins."

---

*End of Prologue*