The last guard of Atherwood
There's an old legend in the quiet town of Regalia, a story whispered among locals of an enchanted forest named Atherwood that lies beyond the town's border. Atherwood was not an ordinary forest, it was known for its greater-darker magic, full of creatures unseen and mysteries unravelled. This ethereal place was guarded by a fearful knight known only as the 'Atherwood guard', whose responsibility it was to keep the town safe from the enchantments of the forest.
One eventful day, the peace of Regalia was interrupted when unusual occurrences started to happen. People reported of seeing strange creatures, shadows shifting in the corners, and properties were being destroyed with energy that seemed to come out of this world, all signs directing towards Atherwood magic spilling out of the forest. The town council was left with no option but to ask for the Atherwood guard's assistance.
The apparition of the Atherwood guard was daunting, armored head to toe with robust silver steel and eyes that radiated intensity. He was a lone warrior, upright and resolute with a mission to safeguard the town from impending threats. However, when the council gentry pleaded their cause, he appeared worried. The magic was never intended to escape the woods. Something had upset the equilibrium of Atherwood.
Acting on his alert instincts, the Guardian rushed into the forest feared by the town's folk. The eerie forest, keeping millennia of secrets, opened up to its protector. As he ventured deeper, strange signs and unsettled creatures confirmed his fear- a powerful source of dark magic has been disturbed.
In the heart of the forest, the guard discovered an ancient stone was missing from its place in the hidden shrine, which was key in maintaining the balance between the real world and Atherwood.
No mortal hand could have done it, and the only creature capable was the shadow beast, known for his iron-willed desire for chaos. The beast was a prisoner, long banished deep within the forest. But the disappearance of the stone hinted otherwise.
Summoning his courage, the knight ventured into the deepest part of the forest, never yet travelled by any soul. Dark vines, chilling winds, and eerie quietude added to the daunting atmosphere, a known realm of the Shadow Beast. As he prepared himself for his nemesis, a powerful force lunged towards him.
The battle between the guardian and the beast was the most gruelling one that Atherwood had ever seen. Echoes of clashing steel, vehement roars and magical explosions frightened even the mightiest creatures. The knight, knowing the odds and implications gained control over his fear, choosing his life's promise over his life. With all his might and the magic bestowed upon him by the forest, he struck and defeated the beast.
Weakened and battered, the guardian placed the ancient stone back in its place, restoring the balance. The magic slowly pulled back, and the norm was restored in Regalia, leaving behind the memories of unusual days. The knight, carrying war-scars to his grave, passed away soon. As a symbol of respect, the town built a statue of him, forever to be remembered as the last Atherwood guard.
The town folks knew the value of selflessness, courage, and their responsibilities towards nature better. The stories of the Atherwood guard passed on through generations, teaching them the value of protection, equilibrium, and bravery.