Story 288: The Heart of Shadows

Damien and Mira moved steadily through the forest, the damp ground muffling their footsteps as they followed the fading echoes of that haunting melody. The air grew colder as they neared a desolate clearing, where twisted trees stood like skeletal sentries, casting long shadows across a landscape of decay. Damien’s grip tightened around his blade as he scanned the area, sensing they were close to something dark and powerful.

Mira broke the silence, her voice barely above a whisper. “I’ve heard stories… about this place. They say it’s cursed, that those who come here either go mad or… worse.”

“Whatever’s drawing us here, it’s exactly what the Zombie King wants,” Damien replied. “He knows we’re after him. This is his game, and we’re playing right into his hands.”