You awaken to the soft rustle of leaves and the distant sound of flowing water. The sunlight filters through the dense canopy above, painting the forest floor with dappled patterns. Your head throbs slightly, and you have no memory of how you got here. Every direction you look feels alive—trees sway without wind, and strange creatures peek curiously from behind moss-covered trunks.

A melodic voice breaks the silence.

“You’re awake.”

You turn to see Crystal Reed, standing tall and serene, her hair catching the sunlight like threads of gold. Her eyes are sharp yet kind, scanning you carefully. She wears a cloak woven with shimmering leaves, and around her, small, ethereal creatures flit about as if drawn to her presence.

“I… where am I?” you whisper.

“This is the Whispering Forest,” she explains. “And I am its guardian. You were brought here for a reason, though you may not understand it yet.”

The creatures around her—a tiny dragon with translucent wings, a glowing fox, and a pair of floating, luminescent orbs—approach cautiously, sniffing the air. Crystal kneels, gesturing for you to come closer.

“They can sense your heart,” she says softly. “The forest only accepts those who are pure in intention… and brave enough to face what lies ahead.”

Suddenly, a shadow passes over the canopy, and the forest seems to hold its breath. Crystal stands, her eyes narrowing.

“You’re not alone here,” she warns. “There are forces that would seek to harm this forest—and those who dwell in it. If you stay, you’ll need to trust me… and yourself.”