Chapter Twenty-one

But even amidst the festivities, a sense of foreboding lingered in the back of my mind. The messenger's urgent news of the villagers' disappearance had been just the beginning. I knew deep down that more challenges awaited us on the horizon, more tests of our strength and courage.

As night fell over the kingdom, King Edward and I retired to our chambers, the flickering candlelight casting long shadows on the stone walls. We sat in silence for a moment, the events of the day weighing heavily on our minds. It was then that King Edward spoke, his voice low and serious.

"We cannot ignore the signs any longer," he said, his eyes fixed on the dancing flames. "The darkness stirs once more, stronger and more insidious than ever before."

I nodded in agreement, knowing that our respite was short-lived. The curse may have been lifted, but a new threat loomed on the horizon, its true nature still shrouded in mystery.

"We must be prepared," I replied, my tone firm. "Whatever comes our way, we will