The Mountain

Sheira’s POV

The sound of something massive crashing through the trees had us all on high alert. We stood in a defensive circle, our weapons at the ready. The forest was eerily silent, the only sound being our own heavy breathing.

Then, out of the dense foliage, a figure emerged. It was a man, but he was unlike any man we had seen before. He was tall and broad, his body covered in what looked like armor made from the bark of trees. His eyes were a startling shade of green, and they held a look of determination.

"I've been looking for you," he said, his voice echoing through the silent forest. His gaze swept over us, finally landing on me. "You are the ones chosen by the Key of Redemption."

We were taken aback. How did he know about our journey? And why was he looking for us?

"My name is Toren," the man continued. "I am a guide, sent by the Forgotten Ones. I am here to lead you to the Mountain of Redemption."