Chapter 86: Shadows of the Past

As Lysandra, Zephyrion, and the boy navigated the dense forest, the air felt thick with an unshakeable tension. The moon cast a silvery glow through the leaves, illuminating their path but also shrouding them in an eerie light. Each rustle of the branches and distant hoot of an owl heightened Lysandra's awareness of the dangers that lay ahead.

"Do you really think she's gone?" the boy asked, his voice barely above a whisper. He clutched tightly to Lysandra's hand, seeking comfort in her presence.

Lysandra exchanged a glance with Zephyrion, who looked equally troubled. "For now, yes," he replied. "But Elara is powerful. She'll be plotting her next move, and we need to be ready."

"What if she comes after us again?" the boy pressed, his eyes wide with fear.

"Then we'll face her together," Lysandra assured him, squeezing his hand gently. "We've already proven we can fight back."

The boy nodded but still seemed unconvinced. His innocence reminded Lysandra of how much was at stake—not just for them but for everyone who lived in fear of Elara's tyranny.

As they reached a small clearing, Zephyrion paused, sensing something in the air. "Let's rest here for a moment," he suggested, looking around cautiously.

They settled beneath the branches of an ancient tree, its gnarled roots providing a semblance of safety. Lysandra took a deep breath, trying to calm the unease gnawing at her insides. She needed to be strong—not just for herself but for the boy and Zephyrion.

"What do we do next?" Lysandra asked, her voice steady despite her racing heart. "We can't let Elara regroup."

Zephyrion nodded, a look of determination crossing his features. "We need to gather allies. The more people we have on our side, the better our chances of defeating her for good."

"Do you have anyone in mind?" Lysandra inquired.

"There's an old ally of mine, a sorceress named Seraphina," Zephyrion said. "She lives in the southern valleys. If anyone can help us, it's her. But the journey will be perilous; Elara may have sent her shadows to keep watch."

Lysandra felt a rush of determination. "Then we'll move quickly and quietly. We can't waste any time."

As they prepared to leave the clearing, the boy spoke up, his voice hesitant. "What if Elara finds us on the way?"

"Then we'll fight," Zephyrion declared, his voice strong and unwavering. "We won't let fear dictate our actions."

Lysandra felt a sense of pride in the conviction that surged through her companion. Together, they would face whatever came their way, refusing to succumb to the darkness.

They resumed their journey, moving swiftly but carefully through the forest. The shadows seemed to whisper around them, almost as if they were aware of their every move.

Hours passed, and just as they approached the edge of the forest, Lysandra caught sight of movement in the trees. Her heart raced as she instinctively reached for her dagger, glancing at Zephyrion.

"Did you see that?" she whispered urgently.

Before he could respond, a figure emerged from the underbrush—a tall man draped in dark cloaks, his face obscured.

"Who goes there?" Lysandra called, brandishing her weapon.

The figure stepped closer, revealing sharp features and piercing blue eyes. "I mean no harm," he said, raising his hands in a gesture of peace. "I'm just a traveler."

"Then you should turn back," Zephyrion warned, his own magic crackling at his fingertips. "The woods are dangerous tonight."

"Indeed they are," the man replied, a smirk curling at his lips. "But I might be able to help you. I've been watching your progress."

Lysandra exchanged a wary glance with Zephyrion, her instincts screaming at her to be cautious. "Why should we trust you?"

"Because I know where Elara is hiding," the man said, his voice smooth and enticing. "And I can help you get to her."

To be continued…