Chapter 4: Shadows lengthen

The return from Frostbite's domain proved no less arduous than the venture in. Gavin guided Valor through fading mists, relying on prayers to remain true amid swirling fog now stirred by a faint awareness of victory. Emerging at last into familiar woodlands, warmth and color returned, yet within lingered a chill no flames could banish.

News spread swiftly of Gavin's latest triumph over Eldoria's invaders. Upon arriving at Arundel's gates, cheers greeted the weathered knight from relieved folk. Even King Eldred appeared moved by Gavin's perseverance against the demons stalking his realm. "None but you, Sir Gavin, have withstood the horrors unleashed upon us," Eldred proclaimed. "Pray, take your rest. Our debts can never be repaid."

In the days following, celebrations gave way to solemn preparations. Though Gavin vanquished two incursions, an ominous sense remained that greater shadows were yet to emerge. Scouts reported movement in darkened territories further afield—sinister portents that drew Gavin's concern. He accepted the well-earned respite, yet found no peace while some nameless power coordinated destruction against his people.

After a fortnight's recovery, Gavin summoned Eldred once more. "Your highness, answers still elude me regarding the orchestrator of these attacks. I must seek them out, lest complacency leave us vulnerable."

Eldred sighed. "My friend, you've done more than enough. Yet your zeal persists where others' would falter. Very well, go with my blessing, and may the light of the Lord guide your path."

Gavin re-entered the mist-shrouded Frostmarsh, treading paths only his instincts could discern. Deep in the wastes, he discovered remnants of Frostbite's last stand, but amid the icy ruins lingered clues of a greater shadow looming over even the dragon. Runes scribed in the primordial tongue, which was demonic, hinted at a third force still at large, an ancient demonic power itself.

So it was that Gavin's search led him ever northward, edging closer to the frigid Wastes of Eternal Night. Here sunlight scarcely penetrated perpetual ice fogs, and none but the most foolhardy ever tread. Yet if answers lay anywhere regarding Eldoria's fate, it was in the ancient citadels half-buried beneath glaciers at the world's cold heart. Premonitions of a cataclysmic battle mounting gave Gavin pause, yet his mission brooked no hesitation. Into the shadows, he pushed onwards, guided by sacred symbols and unwavering faith in righteousness.