Chapter 5: The Shadow in the Night

Arthur's search for the keystone led him down a dark and winding path, both literally and figuratively. He spent countless nights poring over ancient texts, searching for any mention of the keystone or its whereabouts.

One night, as he walked through the palace gardens, lost in thought, Arthur sensed a presence behind him. He spun around, but there was no one there.

Suddenly, a figure emerged from the shadows. It was a woman, tall and statuesque, with skin as pale as moonlight and hair as black as the night.

"Who are you?" Arthur demanded, his hand on the hilt of his sword.

The woman smiled, her eyes glinting with a mischievous light. "My name is Lyra," she said. "And I have been sent to guide you on your journey."

Arthur's eyes narrowed. "What journey?" he asked, his voice wary.

Lyra's smile grew wider. "The journey to find the keystone, of course," she said. "You're not going to find it on your own, you know. You need my help."

Arthur hesitated, unsure of what to make of Lyra's words. But something about her seemed sincere, and he found himself wanting to trust her.

"Okay," he said finally. "I'll let you help me. But if you're trying to trick me, you'll regret it."

Lyra laughed, a low, throaty sound. "I wouldn't dream of it, Prince Arthur," she said. "I promise you, our partnership will be mutually beneficial."