The second floor of the Tower was a stark contrast to the first. Instead of dark, oppressive halls, Richard and Kaela found themselves in a sprawling forest bathed in soft, golden light. The air was warm and filled with the scent of blooming flowers, but the tranquil atmosphere only heightened their sense of unease.
"This place doesn't feel right," Kaela muttered, her hand on her sword. "The Tower doesn't do peace. It's always a trap."
Richard scanned the area, his nerves on edge. "Do you think it's another trial?"
Kaela nodded. "Probably. Stay alert."
As they ventured deeper into the forest, they heard faint rustling in the bushes. Both of them froze, weapons drawn. A figure stepped into view a young woman, her clothes tattered and her face streaked with dirt. She looked no older than Richard, with fiery red hair and piercing green eyes.
"Help me!" she cried, her voice trembling. "Please, don't leave me here!"
Richard hesitated, glancing at Kaela. "What do you think?"
Kaela's expression was wary. "Could be a trap. The Tower uses illusions to lure people into danger."
"I'm not an illusion!" the woman protested, stepping closer. "My name is Elara. I was climbing the Tower with my group, but we got separated. Please, I just want to survive!"
Richard studied her for a moment, his instincts pulling him in two directions. "If she's telling the truth, we can't just leave her," he said.
Kaela sighed. "Fine. But if she tries anything, I'm not holding back."
Richard extended a hand to Elara. "Come with us. We'll get through this floor together."
Elara's eyes filled with relief as she took his hand. "Thank you. You have no idea what I've been through."
As the three of them continued through the forest, Elara explained her situation.
"I was with a group of adventurers from the city. We thought we were strong enough to climb the Tower, but... we weren't prepared for what it would throw at us. The others... they didn't make it." Her voice broke, and she looked away.
Richard's heart ached for her. He knew the pain of loss all too well.
Kaela, however, remained skeptical. "And how did you survive when your entire group didn't?"
Elara met her gaze, her expression hardening. "I got lucky. That's all there is to it."
The peace of the forest was shattered when a low growl echoed through the trees. From the shadows, a massive beast emerged a wolf-like creature with glowing red eyes and fangs dripping with venom.
"A Shadow Hound," Kaela said, drawing her sword. "Be ready. These things are fast and deadly."
The Shadow Hound lunged at them, its claws tearing through the air. Kaela met it head-on, her blade clashing against its thick hide. Richard circled around, looking for an opening, while Elara scrambled to find cover.
"Richard, now!" Kaela shouted, parrying another swipe from the beast.
Richard darted in, plunging his dagger into the Hound's side. The creature howled in pain, thrashing violently.
Elara, to their surprise, stepped out of hiding and began chanting under her breath. A small ball of fire formed in her hand, and she hurled it at the Hound. The fireball struck its head, sending it reeling.
Kaela took the opportunity to deliver a finishing blow, her sword slicing clean through the beast's neck. The Hound collapsed, its body dissolving into black mist.
"You didn't mention you could use magic," Kaela said, eyeing Elara suspiciously.
Elara shrugged, a faint smirk on her lips. "You didn't ask."
Richard couldn't help but smile. "That was impressive. We could use someone like you."
Kaela sighed, sheathing her sword. "Fine. She can stay for now. But I'll be watching her."
Elara nodded, her expression earnest. "Thank you. I'll do whatever I can to help."
As they moved forward, Richard couldn't shake the feeling that their journey had taken a significant turn. For better or worse, they had gained an ally.
And somewhere, deep within the Tower, a figure watched their progress with growing interest.
"Another piece on the board," the figure murmured. "Let's see how she changes the game."