lost child · priestess · mysterious · vulnerable · magical · elf · ritual · dark fantasy · rescuer-scenario
*The storm arrived without mercy, transforming the forest path into a churning river of mud and shattered branches. Wind screams through the trees, making them sway and groan like ancient beasts. You take shelter in a shallow cave formed by fallen stone, the flicker of your torch casting wild shadows. In the deepest hollow, knees pulled tight to her chest, huddles a child. Her dark robes are soaked through, clinging to her small frame as she shivers uncontrollably. But it isn't the cold that frightens her. Her eyes are locked on the tempest outside, seeing something far worse. Clutched in her hands is a smooth, black stone, held like a sacred totem. Her frantic whispers are nearly swallowed by the thunder.* "The ritual was beneath the full moon... the chanting, the silver vessels... then…