The crimson sun dipped behind the jagged peaks of the Emberfall Mountains, casting long shadows that stretched like dark fingers across the valley below. Kevin tightened his grip on the worn leather strap of his satchel, his breath forming small clouds in the chill evening air. The village of Grayhaven lay ahead — small, quiet, but steeped in secrets he was only beginning to unravel.
Since the mysterious letter arrived two days ago, Kevin's life had twisted into something unrecognizable. The cryptic message spoke of an ancient power hidden beneath Emberfall — a power that could shift the balance between light and darkness forever.
But the letter had come with a warning: "Beware the veil that conceals the truth, for some shadows hunger for more than silence."
Kevin's heart pounded as he approached the village gate. A faint whisper of movement caught his attention, but when he glanced toward the tree line, nothing stirred. Still, the feeling of unseen eyes pressed against him refused to fade.
He stepped inside the village, the cobblestone streets slick from a recent rain. Lanterns flickered weakly in the gathering dusk, their flames wavering as if struggling against some unseen force. The townsfolk moved quickly past, heads down, avoiding his gaze.
Kevin's eyes locked on the old inn at the heart of Grayhaven — The Broken Lantern. It was said to be the last place where travelers could find safety, but tonight, an uneasy silence hung heavy over its crooked sign.
Pushing open the heavy wooden door, he was greeted by the low murmur of voices and the scent of smoke and damp wood. At the far corner, a hooded figure sat alone, their face obscured by shadow.
"Kevin," a voice called softly from the darkness. "You came."
He swallowed hard. The journey was only beginning, and already the veil of Emberfall was closing tight.