Aurora's heart was pounding as she stood at the entrance to the old forest, the moonlight creating eerie shadows on the twisted trees. Damien's hand brushed hers, a silent sign of reassurance that sent a chill down her spine. The prophecy had brought them here, to the core of the enchanted woods, where the answers were waiting.

Ethan's easy smile did not hide the tension in the air. "Ready for a bit of an adventure, Aurora?"

She nodded, her determination stronger than her fear. "Let's do this."

Guided by the moon's silvery light, they went further into the forest. Gabriel's presence, always lurking in the back of her mind, added...