Sanctuary

Kaito and Elara stood frozen, their bodies tense, their weapons still raised. The woman in white regarded them with a serene smile, her eyes, though filled with an otherworldly light, held no malice.

"Who are you?" Elara finally asked, her voice wary.

"You may call me Luna," the woman replied, her voice a melodic whisper that seemed to soothe the tension in the air. "I am a guardian of this forest."

Kaito lowered his club, a wave of relief washing over him. He had been so focused on the danger, on the endless cycle of death and betrayal, that he had forgotten there might still be good in this world.

"Thank you," Kaito said, his voice hoarse. "For saving us from the wolves."

Luna smiled. "It was no trouble. Those creatures are easily swayed by fear and darkness". her eyes fixing on Kaito.

Kaito felt a warmth spread through him, a flicker of hope in the midst of despair. He wasn't sure what she meant, but her words resonated with a deep truth within him.

"We're looking for Old Maggie," Elara said, stepping forward. "Can you help us find her?"

Luna nodded. "Follow me."

She turned and glided through the trees, her white cloak billowing behind her like a cloud. Kaito and Elara exchanged a glance, then hurried after her, their footsteps silent on the soft earth.

They followed Luna for what felt like hours, the forest gradually transforming around them. The oppressive darkness gave way to a soft, ethereal glow, the trees seeming to shimmer with an inner light. The air was filled with the scent of wildflowers and the sound of birdsong, a stark contrast to the burning village they had left behind.

Finally, they emerged into a clearing, bathed in the soft light of the rising sun. In the center of the clearing stood a small cottage, its walls covered in moss and vines, its windows glowing with a warm, inviting light.

"This is where she lives," Luna said, gesturing towards the cottage. "But be warned, Old Maggie is not always... welcoming."

Kaito and Elara nodded, their hearts pounding with anticipation. They had finally reached their destination, but they knew the journey was far from over. the curse, the Devil's Tower it all awaited them within that humble cottage.

They approached the cottage cautiously, their footsteps muffled by the soft grass. As they reached the door, it creaked open, revealing a figure standing in the shadows.

"Well, well," a raspy voice cackled. "Look what the cat dragged in."

Old Maggie stepped into the light, her eyes glinting with amusement. "Welcome, travelers," she said, her lips curving into a sly smile. "I've been expecting you."