Chronicle of Forgotten Legends
Price of Salvation
Akop Nagabedyan

© Akop Nagabedyan, 2025

ISBN 978-5-0065-3814-6

Created with Ridero smart publishing system

Introduction.

In a distant world, where magic permeates every drop of air, and ancient legends come to life in every rustle of the forest, there is a country about which legends are told. It is a place where the skies are painted in the vibrant hues of sunset and the stars seem closer than ever. Here in the Moonlands live creatures with amazing abilities, and every corner is filled with secrets waiting to be discovered.

Among the majestic mountains and boundless forests are spread cities where magic and nature coexist in harmony. But not everything is so peaceful in this magical kingdom: Eldoralia. Dark forces are beginning to rise from the depths of forgotten legends, threatening to destroy a world that was built on trust and friendship.

Prepare to immerse yourself in a thrilling tale of friendship, courage, and magic, where every decision can change the fate of an entire kingdom.

Chapter 1:

On a windy evening, as blue clouds covered the sky, an old mage named Aldoras went deep into the forest.

Aldoras was a white-haired old man with deep wrinkles that imprinted his long years of studying magic. His eyes, though darkened by old age, still emitted sparks of wisdom and determination. He walked like a ghost, driven by a single thought – to find his longtime acquaintance, a sorceress named Melinda, with whom they had shared many exciting moments in the past.

As he approached her home, surrounded by magical forests, his heart filled with anxious excitement. He knew that what he came with would not be an easy challenge. He wanted to bring back to life someone he needed, but the price of such a miracle was always high.

– Why have you come, Aldoras? – came a familiar voice as soon as he reached her door. Melinda stood on the threshold, with her black hair falling to her shoulders, her eyes shining like stars.

– «Melinda, you know why I’m here,» the mage replied, trying to hide the tremor in his voice. – I have come with a request that could change everything…

– What could be so important? You knew the consequences of resurrection, didn’t you? – Melinda sighed, a shadow of longing running across her face.

Aldoras kept his eyes on her, and his heart beat faster. He realized she would not be easily convinced.

– I want to bring Galdor back to life,» he said, taking a deep breath as he spoke the name of the mighty warrior who served the evil goddess of cold, Freya.

Melinda was silent, her gaze becoming more wary. She realized this wasn’t just a whim.

– You know that resurrection will require sacrifice. I’m not sure the dark forces we’re using will be prudent. – Melinda studied his face alternately – she was searching for answers that might reassure her.

– I’m willing to do whatever it takes,» his voice sounded determined. Agree to help me.

The mage looked into Melinda’s eyes, and the second their gazes met, she felt a great burden on his soul. He couldn’t refuse; his heart was broken, and he was willing to go all the way, even if it meant risking everything he had.

– Okay,» she finally said, a new sparkle in her eyes. – But I must warn you: the consequences can be unpredictable. There are forces that could break free…

– I realize the risks,» Melinda interrupted her, ready for what might happen. – But I can’t turn my back on this.

– Okay,» Melinda said, her eyes lighting up with determination. – We’ll have to make the necessary preparations. We have to find the artifacts we need in the forest and complete the ritual on the full moon. -Melinda turned toward her house and cast a spell of magical light. Soon the house was filled with a soft light, chasing away the darkness outside the window.

Aldoras felt long-standing feelings of hope and fear awaken in him at the same time. Another life was close at hand, but with each step they were getting closer

Chapter 2:

In Eldoralia, where magic and reality intertwine, there were many cities and settlements, each with its own unique culture and traditions. To the north spread the icy lands where mighty warriors dwelt. These warriors were known for their bravery and prowess in battle, and their names were whispered in awe. To the south, in the hot deserts, lived nimble traders and cunning mages who could control sandstorms, creating illusions and deceiving their enemies.

The eastern forests were inhabited by elves, known for their grace and skill at archery. Their arrows always found their target, and their magic was as graceful as they themselves. To the west, in the mountains, hid the dwarves, skilled blacksmiths and builders who created amazing artifacts and structures that could withstand any test of time.

At the center of this world was the Great Capital, a city where life raged like a river. Races and cultures mingled here, creating a unique atmosphere. The streets were filled with merchants offering exotic goods, and fairs and festivals were held in the squares. Every year, a Tournament was held in the capital, bringing the best fighters from all corners of the world. It was an event that had been dreamed of since childhood, and only the strongest and most skillful could get the opportunity to participate.

Aldoras and Melinda knew that they would need not only artifacts, but also the support of strong allies to resurrect Galdor. They decided to travel to the capital to find those who could help them in their dangerous endeavor. The journey to the capital was full of danger. They crossed dense forests where wild beasts and magical creatures lurked. Traps and spells left behind by old mages awaited them at every turn. But Aldoras and Melinda were determined. They knew that in the capital not only the opportunity to find artifacts awaited them, but also the chance to meet old friends and enemies.

When they finally reached the capital, they were greeted by the bustling life of the city. Huge buildings decorated with magical symbols towered above them, and the streets were bustling with activity. People and creatures of different races hurried about their business, discussing the latest news and rumors about the upcoming tournament.

– We need to find information about the artifacts we need,» Melinda said, looking around. – And we need to be careful. There are many in this city who have no interest in our success.

Aldoras nodded, his heart pounding with excitement. He knew their mission was dangerous, but he also felt it was the only way to bring Galdor back to life and stop the looming threat from the cold goddess Frey.

– Let’s start at the tavern,» he suggested. – There we can hear the rumors and perhaps find some allies.

They went to one of the most famous taverns in the capital, where adventurers, mercenaries and mages gathered. Inside there was an atmosphere of fun and danger, and Aldoras felt his heart fill with hope. In this world full of wonder and danger, they could find what they were looking for.

When Aldoras and Melinda entered the tavern, they were immediately enveloped by an atmosphere of fun and danger. Loud laughter, the sounds of music and conversations blended into a single stream, making it feel like life never stops here in the heart of the capital. The walls of the tavern were decorated with trophies from distant lands, and the tables were lined with maps and magical artifacts that attracted attention.

When an acquaintance approached them, an old traveler named Eridon.

Eridon, with a tired but excited expression on his face, sat down at the table and greeted his longtime friends.They exchanged warm words, discussing previous adventures and joking about old times. After a brief pause, leaning closer, he began to narrate:

– You wouldn’t believe what I saw! The other day I was passing by a temple that stands at the edge of the forest, and I noticed a dark elf, whom no one knows, going there often. He looked strange, like he was looking for something, but no one could figure out what it was. I saw him whispering incantations and leaving some kind of marks on the ground. It didn’t seem like the usual things elves do.

Aldoras and Melinda exchanged glances of concern and interest.

– A dark elf? – Melinda asked, leaning closer. – Are you sure it’s him?

– Yes,» Eridon nodded. – I’d never seen him before, but his eyes… They shone like stars in the night. I sensed he was up to something evil.

Aldoras, hesitating, said:

– If he is indeed up to something, we need to find out what is going on in the temple. It could be connected to the dark forces that the legends whisper about.

Chapter 3:

While Aldoras and Melinda searched for a way to resurrect Galdor, a boy named Edward lived in a small settlement lost among green hills and dense forests. From an early age, he dreamed of becoming a great warrior and participating in the Tournament he had heard about from his elders. Every day, when the sun rose above the horizon, he would go out into the courtyard and pick up a wooden sword that he had carved himself from an old tree.

Edward was frail and weak compared to the other children. His arms were not strong, and his legs often gave out when he tried to perform complicated movements. His friends laughed at him, calling him «sword boy,» and said he would never be a warrior.

– Why would you want to do that? – laughed his best friend, Thomas. – You’d better do something else, like help me with my fishing.

– I can’t,» Edward replied, clutching his sword. – I have to train. I want to be a warrior!

– You can’t even stand up properly! – Another friend, Mark, chimed in. – You’ll never be able to fight real fighters.

But Edward didn’t give up. He imagined himself in the arena, fighting mighty opponents, and felt his heart fill with determination. Each time he fell, he got up again, shaking the dust off his clothes and continuing his training.

One day as he was practicing again, an old woman, known in the village as the wise one, approached him. She watched his attempts and finally spoke:

– Edward, you mustn’t listen to those who say you can’t do it. Strength is not always in the muscles. True strength is determination and belief in yourself.

These words inspired the boy. He began to realize that his dreams did not depend on the opinions of others. He continued to train, but now with a new goal – not only to become stronger physically, but also to develop his inner strength. He began to study battle tactics, read books about great warriors and their exploits, and practiced meditation to strengthen his spirit.

Every day Edward became more and more confident. He began to get the attention of the other children, who at first laughed at him. They began to notice how he was changing, and some of them even started to join his practice sessions. Edward became an example to them, showing them that perseverance and belief in oneself can overcome any obstacle.

One day, as he was practicing at the edge of the village, he saw a group of people heading for the capital. Among them were those who sought adventure and those who dreamed of glory. Edward felt his heart beat faster. This was his opportunity!

– Mother, I want to go to the capital! – he exclaimed when he got home. His mother, preparing dinner, stopped and looked at him in surprise.

– Edward, are you sure? It’s far away and dangerous. You are too young to go on such a journey.

– But mother, I must! I want to be a warrior and compete in the Tournament! I’m ready for it! – his voice was resolute.

– I understand your dream,» she said, setting the table. – But you must be careful. There are many dangers in the world, and not everyone who goes to the capital comes back.

– I will be careful, I promise! – Edward insisted. – I can’t stay here when I have a chance to change my fate.

His father, who was sitting at the table, looked at his son with pride.

– Edward, if you really want to do this, I can’t stop you. But remember that true strength is not only in the ability to fight, but also in wisdom and caution.

– I’ll remember, Dad,» Edward replied, determined. – I’ll be strong, and I’ll come back to prove to everyone that I can do more.

With a few things packed, he set off on his journey, full of hopes and dreams

Edward stood at the edge of the village, his heart pounding with excitement. He had packed everything he needed: some food, water, and of course his wooden sword. He looked back at his hometown, where he had spent all his childhood years, and took a deep breath and headed towards the capital.

Along the way, he met his friends who were playing in a clearing. They noticed him and came closer.

– Edward, where are you going? – Thomas asked, looking at him in bewilderment.

– I’m going to the capital to become a warrior and compete in the Arena Tournament! – Edward answered proudly.

– Are you serious? – Mark wondered. – You can’t fight real fighters!

– I can! – Edward said confidently. – I’ll train, and I’ll get strong!

His friends looked at him, and though they didn’t believe in his dreams, their eyes flashed with respect for his determination.

– Well, good luck to you, Edward! – Thomas said. – We’ll be waiting for your return!

Edward nodded and continued on his way. He walked through the forests and fields, meeting all kinds of people: traders, travelers, and even knights on the road. Each of them told stories, and Edward listened with bated breath, dreaming that one day he would be a part of them.

One day, when he stopped to rest, an older man with a long beard and worn clothes approached him.

– Where are you going, boy? – He asked, taking a seat beside him.

– I’m going to the capital to become a warrior,» Edward answered, his head held high and proud.

– A warrior, you say? – The old man grinned. – It’s not as easy as it sounds. Are you ready for the challenge?

– I am! – Edward exclaimed. – I will train and I will become strong!

The old man looked at him with interest.

– Good, but remember that strength is not just about muscles. Strength is also the ability to think and make decisions. You must be wise to survive in this world.

Edward nodded, realizing that the old man was right. He continued on his way, pondering his words.

When he finally reached the capital, he was filled with a feeling of excitement and fear at the same time. The huge buildings, bustling streets, and multitudes of people were all new and unfamiliar. He headed towards the arena where the tournaments were to be held.

In the arena, he saw many fighters, each looking strong and confident. Edward felt his heart beat faster. He knew that he would need to train hard to reach their level.

Soon he found a small training area where the young fighters were gathered. Edward walked up to them and said:

– I want to train with you!

Some of them laughed, but one guy named Lince, noticing his determination, said:

– If you really want to, we can try. But be prepared for hard work.

Edward nodded, and from that moment his training began. Every day he worked on his technique, learning new moves and getting stronger. He didn’t give up, even when he fell and got bruised. His friends from the village, when they heard about his progress, began writing him letters of encouragement and support.

One day, after a particularly hard workout, Edward sat on a bench, tired but happy. He remembered the words of an old woman from the village, «True strength is determination and self-belief.» He knew his dreams were becoming a reality, and he wasn’t going to stop there.

– I’m going to be a warrior! – he whispered, looking at the arena full of possibilities. – I’m going to do it…

Chapter 4:

Also in Eldoralia, there are the Northern Lands, which was a place where the cold permeated all living things. Here, among the vast expanses of snow and icy mountains, different races dwelt: humans, orcs, elves, and other creatures. Each adapted to the harsh conditions, but they were all united by one thing: survival in this brutal climate.

The humans in the north were more harsh and withdrawn than their southern counterparts. They wore warm clothes of fur and leather, and their faces were riddled with wrinkles from the cold wind. In their eyes they could see resilience and determination, for every day was a struggle for life. They built their villages of wood and stone, creating fortresses that could withstand the onslaught of winter.

The Orcs living in the north were known for their strength and belligerence. Their tribes were often in conflict with humans, but at the same time they respected strength and bravery. Orcs were masters at blacksmithing, creating powerful weapons and armor that could withstand any challenge. Their leaders were respected figures, and each sought to prove their might in battle.

Elves, though less common in the north, also found their place here. They lived in forests that were sheltered from the cold, and used magic to protect their lands. Elves were known for their grace and wisdom, and their presence in the northern lands added to the mystique. They often aided humans and orcs when they faced threats from the wilds.

Despite the harsh conditions, the northern lands were full of life. Wild animals such as polar bears and wolves could be found here, who also struggled to survive. The locals respected nature and knew that every element of the ecosystem played an important role in their lives.

One day, as Edward continued his training in the capital, he heard stories of the northern lands. These tales of rugged warriors, magic, and ancient traditions mesmerized him. He dreamed of traveling north one day to test his strength and learn more about life in these cold lands.

– I must see it with my own eyes,» he thought, imagining himself among mighty warriors and wise elves. – I will become strong like the northern warriors and learn their arts.

Edward realized that his journey was just beginning, and new challenges and adventures awaited him. He was determined not only to become a warrior, but also to learn about the world around him, including the mysterious northern lands where life was full of challenges and opportunities.

In the north, amidst the vast expanse of snow, lived a mighty warrior named Thunder. He was over two meters tall and his muscles were like steel ropes, hardened by countless battles. Thunder was known not only for his strength, but also for the bravery with which he defended his village from the attacks of wild beasts and hostile tribes. Every morning he would go out hunting, his huge axe glinting in the sun and his eyes like two icy lakes full of determination. Thunder knew his people needed protection, and he was ready to lay down his life for his loved ones. But deep down, he dreamed of more – of glory, of being part of something great.

One day, when Thunder returned from the forest with his loot, he overheard the village elders talking. They were discussing the upcoming tournament at the Arena in the capital, where the best warriors from all over the world were gathered. Thunder felt his heart beat faster. This was his opportunity to show everyone what he could do.

– I will go to the capital,» he said, addressing the elders. – I will participate in the tournament and bring glory to our village!

The elders looked at each other, and one of them, wise and gray-haired, said:

– Thunder, you are strong, but remember that the Arena will be more than just a physical challenge. It will require skill, strategy, and wit. Are you ready for that?

– I am ready for anything! – answered Thunder with determination. – I will learn everything I need to learn to win!

Thunder was not only a strong warrior, but also a man with a kind heart. He always took care of his family and friends. His mother cooked him food before hunting, and his father taught him how to handle an axe.

– «You must be strong, Thunder,» his father used to say. – But remember that true strength is not only physical power, but also the ability to protect those you love.

Thunder always remembered those words. He realized that his family and friends were what mattered most to him. In his spare moments, he would often sit on a rock, look up at the stars, and dream of coming home victorious. He imagined how proud his village would be of him, and he himself would be a hero to be remembered and respected.

One day, after training, Thunder met up with Art, who had become a close friend.

– How are you, Thunder? – Art asked, looking at him with respect. – Are you strong enough to compete in the tournament yet?

– I feel like I still have a lot of work to do,» replied Grom. – But I’m ready. Not only do I want to show my muscles, but I want to think strategically.

Art nodded, realizing that Grom was not only a strong warrior, but also smart.

– «Remember, Grom,» he said, ’the Arena is not only about strength, but also about thinking and decision making. You must be prepared for any situation.

Grom marveled at how much he had learned from his friends. He realized that he was not alone in this journey, and that gave him new strength. Over the next few weeks, Grom continued to train, and each day he became more and more confident in his abilities. He remembered the words of his father and old friends, and it sustained him through the difficult moments.

Thunder knew that his journey was just beginning, and he was ready for whatever challenges awaited him.

One evening as Thunder and his friends gathered around the campfire, they discussed their adventures and life in the North. Huge pine trees surrounded them and the stars shone brightly in the night sky.

– You know,“ Art began, „I’ve always thought that hunting was not only a way to get food, but also an opportunity to get to know yourself. Every time I go out into the woods I feel nature testing me.

– Yes,“ agreed Thunder, „hunting teaches us patience and mindfulness. I remember the first time I went hunting with my father. He told me: «Listen to the forest, and it will tell you its secrets».

– What’s your favorite thing about hunting, Thunder? – asked one of his new friends, named Lev.

– I love the feeling of freedom when wandering through the woods,» Thunder answered, looking into the fire. – And, of course, when you manage to catch something big. It’s a feeling of pride when you bring it home.

– And I like to cook,» Art added with a smile. – After a successful hunt, we always get together and cook with our prey. It’s like a celebration!

– Yes,“ said Thunder, „food cooked with friends always tastes better. I remember once we caught a huge deer and cooked it all night. It was unforgettable!

– And how we sang songs under the stars afterward! – exclaimed Lev, laughing. – It was the best time ever.

– I hope we will gather like that again after the tournament,» said Thunder, full of determination. – I’ll come back with a victory, and we’ll celebrate together!

– I believe so,“ Art supported him, „You are a strong and clever warrior, Grom. But remember, it is not only physical superiority that counts in the Arena.

– Yes,» Thunder agreed. – I will remember that.

They continued sharing stories and laughter, and Grom felt his heart fill with the warmth of friendship and support. He knew that despite all the trials that awaited him, he had loyal friends ready to support him in any situation.

After long days of training and preparing for the tournament, Thunder often thought of his family. His wife, Liora, was a source of inspiration and support for him. She always believed in him, even when he himself doubted his own abilities. Their son, little Dorian, grew more curious and brave every day, and Grom dreamed of how one day he would be able to teach him all his skills.

One evening when Grom returned home after training, he saw Lyora preparing dinner. She smiled at him, and there was a glow of pride in her eyes.

– How was your day, my hero? – She asked, setting the table.

– «Training was hard,» Thunder replied, sitting down at the table. – «But I feel like I’m getting stronger. I’m ready for the tournament.

Liora leaned over to him and said quietly:

– I believe in you, Grom. You are not only a strong warrior, but also a kind person. That makes you a true hero.

– Thank you, Liora,» he replied, feeling warmth spill over his heart. – I want you and Dorian to be proud of me.

At that moment Drian came running into the room, his eyes shining.

– «Daddy! Daddy!» he shouted. – I want to be as strong as you! Will you teach me?

Thunder smiled and leaned over to his son.

– «Of course, my little warrior. But it will take a lot of study and training. Are you ready?

– Yes! I am ready! – Dorian exclaimed, clenching his fists.

– «Then let’s start simple,» said Thunder. – Tomorrow I’ll show you how to hold an axe properly.

Liora, watching them, couldn’t hold back a smile.

– You two are quite a team,» she said. – I’m proud of you.

Thunder felt his heart fill with pride for his family. He knew that despite all the trials that awaited him at the tournament, his family would always be there to support him.

The next day, Thunder and Dorian went to practice. Thunder showed his son how to hold the axe properly and how to make the first moves.

– «Look, Dorian,» he said, demonstrating the technique. – It’s important not only to be strong, but also to be able to control your movements.

– I’ll do my best, Dad! – Dorian replied, trying to imitate his father’s movements.

After the training, they returned home, and Grom noticed that Liora was preparing something special.

– What is it? – He asked, inhaling the aroma.

– I decided to make your favorite dish to cheer you up before the tournament,» she replied with a smile.

– Thank you, Liora,» Thunder said, feeling his heart fill with warmth. – It will give me strength.

That evening, as they sat around the table, Grom told his family about his plans for the tournament.

– «I will fight not only for myself, but for you as well,» he said as he looked at Lyora and Dorian. – I want you to be proud of me.

– We are already proud of you,» Liora replied, taking his hand. – You are our hero, and we will always be with you.

Dorian, wide-eyed, added:

– I’ll be your hero too, when I grow up!

Thunder smiled, knowing that his family was his true strength. He was ready for whatever challenges awaited him at the tournament, knowing that he had support and love to help him through all the challenges.

The next morning, Thunder decided to travel to the capital city. The journey would be long and full of adventure, and Grom knew he would have a lot to look forward to.

One day, when he had been walking through the snowy expanse for days, he stopped for a rest by a small stream. Thunder started a fire and began to cook his supper. Suddenly he heard a noise in the bushes.

– Who is there? – He asked, looking warily in the direction of the sound.

An old man with a long white beard and kind eyes came out from behind the trees.

– Don’t be afraid, traveler,» the old man said, sitting down beside Thunder. – I was just looking for shelter from the cold wind.

– I am Thunder,» he introduced himself. – And who are you?

– My name is Yaro. I live nearby, and I often walk through these parts. What brings you to these parts?

– I’m going to the capital,» Thunder answered. – I want to learn more about the world and perhaps find new adventures.

– The capital? – Yaro was surprised. – It’s a dangerous place, full of intrigue and trickery. Are you ready for what awaits you there?

Thunder thought for a moment. He knew that the capital was not only opportunities, but also risks.

– I’m ready for anything,» he said with determination. – I’m not afraid of hardship.

– Good,» Yaro nodded. – But remember that in life it is not only strength that counts, but also wisdom. Sometimes it is better to retreat than to go for broke.

Thunder thought about the old man’s words. He realized that wisdom was an essential part of a true warrior.

– Thanks for the advice, Yaro,» he said. – I’ll try to keep it in mind.

After dinner, they continued talking, sharing stories about their lives. Yaro told of his adventures as a young man, how he had traveled to different lands and met amazing people.

– And you, Thunder,“ Yaro continued, „don’t forget your friends. They are your support. Without them, even the greatest feats are meaningless.

– I know,» Thunder replied. – My friends always support me, and I hope I can meet them again in the capital.

The next morning, Grom said goodbye to Yaro and continued his journey. He felt that every new acquaintance and every story made him stronger and wiser.

Traveling through the snowy expanse, Grom met a group of travelers who were also on their way to the capital. They were of different ages and backgrounds.

– Hello!» said one of them, a tall guy with a cheerful face. – I’m Stan. We were just about to set up camp. Come join us!

Thunder smiled and agreed. In the evening, sitting around the campfire, they shared stories of their travels.

– «I’ve always dreamed of seeing the capital,» said one of the travelers, a girl named Elia. – They say there are many amazing places and people there.

– Yes, but don’t forget that there are also many dangers there,» added Stan. – We must be careful.

Thunder remembered Yaro’s words and nodded.

– I agree. We must stick together and support each other,» he said. – Together we can overcome any difficulties.

They went to bed, full of anticipation and hope for tomorrow, knowing that together they could overcome any difficulties that came their way.

As Thunder and his new friends settled in for the night, they had no idea what awaited them. The sky was studded with stars, and the wind whispered softly among the trees. Suddenly, a loud noise came out of the darkness, and a huge troll appeared before them. His skin was gray and his eyes glowed with an ominous light. The troll, without waiting for questions, attacked the group of travelers. Thunder, though frightened, gathered his wits and threw himself into the fight. He knew they needed to join forces to deal with this terrible creature. The fight began. The troll was huge and terrifying, its blows were powerful and it knocked down its opponents with ease. Thunder, Stan, and Elia fought as hard as they could, but the troll was too strong. They beat him for hours, but he would not give up.

Finally, when his strength began to run out, Grom gathered all his courage and rushed to the attack and his friends joined forces to deliver the decisive blow. With a crash, the troll fell to the ground and its menacing presence vanished. Thunder and his friends, breathing heavily, stood over their defeated foe, realizing that their friendship and courage had helped them overcome this challenge.

– We did it! – exclaimed Thunder, embracing his friends. – We have won!

They thanked each other for their support and continued on their way, but now they were confident that together they could overcome any difficulties.

Suddenly Stan, still catching his breath, noticed:

– It’s strange that the troll is here. I thought trolls were long extinct.

Elia nodded in agreement:

– Yes, it is indeed unusual. Where did it come from here?

Thunder thought for a moment and answered:

– Perhaps he stayed here to guard something important. Or perhaps he just didn’t find a place for himself in this world like many other creatures.

Stan added:

– But if trolls still exist, then other dangers may be around. We need to be careful.

Thunder agreed:

– Yes, and we need to be ready for anything. There may be many more mysteries lurking in this forest.

Several days passed, and Thunder and his friends continued their journey through the forest. Each step became more and more difficult, and dark shadows seemed to follow them. The wind howled and the trees whispered their secrets, creating an atmosphere of unease.

– Have you noticed how often we meet footprints? – Thunder asked, pointing to the torn bodies of animals. – It’s not just a coincidence.

– «Yes,» Elia agreed, «I feel that something is wrong. It’s as if someone or something is watching us.

Stan, who was still tense after the battle with the troll, added:

– Perhaps it’s the aftermath of what we did. We defeated the troll, and now its master or other creatures may seek revenge.

Thunder thought for a moment. He remembered how the troll had been full of anger and hatred. Perhaps he really was part of something bigger, and their victory might have aroused the anger of other creatures.

– We need to be careful,» Thunder said. – We don’t know who or what might be waiting for us.

Suddenly there was a crackling sound from behind the trees, and the group froze. All eyes turned in that direction. A figure emerged from the bushes – it was an old forester with a long beard and wise eyes.

– Do not be afraid, travelers,“ he said, „I am not an enemy. I have been watching you and I have come to warn you.

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