Elina Nightbloom and the Curse of the White Stag E-Book

Sabine Traeder

• Herausgeber: BoD - Books on Demand
• Kategorie: Fantasy und Science-Fiction
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 311

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2025

Beschreibung

Eleven year old Elina Nightbloom, a small statured student at Wolfsrock, a school of magic, suddenly finds herself drawn into an adventure that will change her life forever. The Crystal of Purity, a powerful artifact that maintains the balance between light and darkness, has been shattered, and its fragments are scattered across the world. When Elina discovers that she is connected to the crystal through the Sun Amulet, a legacy from her father, she embarks on a dangerous journey with her friends Tobias, Mia, Lila, Lukas, and her brother Jorin to reunite the fragments. Together, they must face daunting trials, battle dark forces, and overcome their deepest fears. Their greatest enemy, the sinister sorcerer Malrik, seeks to harness the fragments power to unleash darkness and rule the world. But with the help of the White Stag, a mystical ally, Elina and her companions fight to restore the crystal. When they learn that the crystal is only one of twelve legendary artifacts, they realize their mission has only just begun. Elina Nightbloom and the Curse of the White Stag is a tale of courage, friendship, and the power to bring light and darkness into harmony.

Leseprobe

Table of Contents

Prologue:The Origin of the Curse

Section 1: The Preparation

Chapter 1:

A Touch of Magic

Chapter 2:

The Silent Observer

Chapter 3:

The Message from Wolfsrock

Chapter 4:

Farewell and Departure

Chapter 5:

The Mysterious Amulet

Section 2: Arrival and Discovery

Chapter 6:

Arrival at Wolfsrock

Chapter 7:

The Houses of Wolfsrock

Chapter 8:

New Friends and Old Enemies

Chapter 9:

The First Lesson

Chapter 10:

The History of Wolfsrock in Class

Section 3: The First Map Fragment

Chapter 11:

The Curse of the White Stag

Chapter 12:

The First Map Fragment

Chapter 13:

The Mountain Riddle

Chapter 14:

The Guardian of the Tunnel

Chapter 15:

Mine Chess: The First Game

Section 4: Following the Path of Magic

Chapter 16:

The Trials of Darkness

Chapter 17:

The Lights in the Forest

Chapter 18:

Shadows in the Moonlight

Chapter 19:

The Runes’ Riddle

Chapter 20:

The Hidden Path

Section 5: Conflicts and Encounters

Chapter 21:

Malrik’s Shadow Appears

Chapter 22:

The White Stag’s Warning

Chapter 23:

The Fire of the Dragon

Chapter 24:

First Fragment –

The River of Time

Chapter 25:

Elina’s Decision

Section 6: Danger and Rescue

Chapter 26:

The Attack of the Shadows

Chapter 27:

The Crystal of Purity

Chapter 28:

The Power of the White Stag

Chapter 29:

Betrayal Within

Chapter 30:

The Allies in the Forest

Section 7: The Battle for the Magic Academy

Chapter 31:

The Attack on Wolfsrock

Chapter 32:

Malrik’s Escape and Fury

Chapter 33:

The Second Fragment –

Light of Truth

Chapter 34:

The Path into Darkness

Chapter 35:

The Victory of Unity

Section 8: A Fragile Peace

Chapter 36:

The Role of the Amulet

Chapter 37:

The Revelation of the Curse

Chapter 38:

The First Vision

Chapter 39:

Elina’s Doubts

Chapter 40:

Jorin’s Secret

Section 9: The Trail to the Artifact

Chapter 41:

The Ancient Manuscripts

Chapter 42:

The Guardian in the Lake

Chapter 43:

The Trial of Hearts

Chapter 44:

The Third Fragment –

The Heart of Fire

Chapter 45:

The Return of Darkness

Section 10: The Search for Answers

Chapter 46:

The Library of Secrets

Chapter 47:

Mine Chess: The Decisive Game

Chapter 48:

The Book of the Curse

Chapter 49:

The Guardian of the Night

Chapter 50:

The Sleeping Village

Section 11: Revelations and Decisions

Chapter 51:

The Fourth Fragment –

The Tears of the Sky

Chapter 52:

Deciphering the Curse

Chapter 53:

The Power of the White Stag

Chapter 54:

Malrik’s Dark Oath

Chapter 55:

The Final Battle

Section 12: A Glimpse into the Future

Chapter 56:

The New Balance

Chapter 57:

The Meaning of the Amulet

Chapter 58:

The Legend Lives On

Chapter 59:

The Shadow Remains

Chapter 60:

The Oath of the White Stag

Section 13: The Looming Threat

Chapter 61:

The Restless Silence

Chapter 62:

The River’s Warning

Chapter 63:

An Uncertain Prophecy

Chapter 64:

Malrik’s Return

Chapter 65:

The Fifth Fragment –

The Shadow of Silence

Section 14: The Battle Against Darkness

Chapter 66:

The Attack on the Keep

Chapter 67:

The Riddle of the Sun Amulet

Chapter 68:

The Trial of Shadows

Chapter 69:

Malrik’s Ultimatum

Chapter 70:

The Amulet’s Betrayal

Section 15: The Sixth Fragment – The Light of Unity

Chapter 71:

The Ritual of Purity

Chapter 72:

The Awakening of the Sun’s Power

Chapter 73:

The Return of the Shadows

Chapter 74:

A Hard-Fought Victory

Chapter 75:

The Sixth Fragment –

The Light of Unity

Section 16: Solving the Mystery

Chapter 76:

The Artifact is Activated

Chapter 77:

The Curse is Broken

Chapter 78:

The White Stag Speaks

Chapter 79:

The Magic of Friendship

Chapter 80:

The White Stag as an Ally

Section 17: Healing and Reconstruction

Chapter 81:

Healing the Community

Chapter 82:

A Surprising Revelation

Chapter 83:

The Call of the White Stag

Chapter 84:

Farewell to the Familiar

Chapter 85:

The Journey Home for the Holidays

Epilogue: The Secret of the Nightbloom Family

Dedication

For all those who find the courage to face their fears, and for everyone who strives to keep the balance between light and darkness.

Motto

"The light within us is stronger than the shadows that surround us."

—Wisdom of the White Stag

Acknowledgments

My heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the creation of this story—

for their inspiration, support, and patience.

About the Author

Sabine Traeder is a passionate storyteller specializing in magical worlds and compelling characters. With Elina Nightbloom and the Curse of the White Stag, she weaves a tale of adventure, mystery, and friendship—one that will captivate readers and transport them into a world of wonder.

Elina Nightbloom and the Curse of the White Stag

A Magical Journey Begins

Elina Nightbloom’s world is anything but ordinary. As an eleven-year-old girl of small stature, she has spent her life struggling to find her place in a world that often feels too big and too loud. But when a mysterious amulet enters her life and she is unexpectedly accepted into the Magical Academy at Wolfsrock, a journey begins—one that could change everything.

Hidden deep within ancient forests, surrounded by shimmering mountains and mystical creatures, lies the academy—a sanctuary for those destined to uphold the balance between light and darkness. But darkness never rests. The sinister sorcerer Malrik Soulcatcher has unleashed an ancient curse and shattered the powerful Crystal of Purity. With every missing fragment, the balance of the magical world tilts further into chaos.

Guided by the wisdom of the White Stag, guardian of the crystal, and supported by her loyal friends, Elina embarks on a perilous mission. She must recover the six lost fragments before Malrik can claim them—an undertaking that will demand courage, determination, and the power of friendship.

But as Elina uncovers the secrets of her own family, she realizes that her connection to this conflict runs far deeper than she ever imagined. The amulet she wears, the legacy of her father, and the prophecy of the White Stag make her the key to the battle against darkness.

Will Elina succeed in reuniting the fragments in time and breaking the curse? Or will Malrik plunge the world into eternal shadow?

Elina Nightbloom and the Curse of the White Stag is a tale of courage, magic, and the strength found in friendship and self-belief. Step into a world of secrets, adventure, and hope.

Prologue: The Origin of the Curse

In the deepest shadows of the forest, where even the moon hesitated to cast its light, an eerie silence reigned. Only the faint whisper of leaves and the distant crackling of twigs pierced the darkness. In the midst of a small clearing, surrounded by shimmering mist, stood the white stag. Its magnificent antlers sparkled like a thousand stars—a beacon amidst the encroaching darkness. By its side stood a wizard, keeping watch. His black cloak billowed in the wind, and the rune-covered surface of his staff glowed faintly in the dim light.

"The balance is in danger, Guardian," the wizard spoke in a rough voice, his gaze fixed warily on the darkness creeping through the forest. "Malrik is closer than I had hoped."

The stag turned its head, its golden eyes filled with wisdom and concern. "We must not waver. The Crystal of Purity must not fall into his hands."

In the distance, the darkness began to take shape. It slithered through the forest like a living shadow, twisting the trees and devouring all light. Finally, Malrik, the dark sorcerer, emerged from the blackness. His figure was tall and menacing, his blood-red eyes glowing like burning embers. A diabolical smile played on his lips as he took in the sight of his adversaries.

"A stag and a wizard," he sneered, his voice dripping with mockery. "Do you really think you can stop me? Your hope is pathetic."

The stag lifted its head, its glow intensifying. "Your darkness may be powerful, Malrik, but it will never overcome the light."

"Light?" Malrik's laughter echoed through the clearing, making the trees tremble. "You do not understand true power. But I will show you."

With a flick of his staff, Malrik summoned a vortex of shadows, swirling like a furious storm as it surged toward the clearing. The wizard stepped in front of the stag, extending his staff. Ancient words, whispered in a forgotten language, flowed from his lips. A shield of light grew around them, radiant and strong.

But Malrik was unfazed. With a single, brutal gesture, he unleashed the full force of his dark magic. The barrier of light shattered like glass, and the impact hurled the wizard to the ground.

"Go!" the wizard gasped as he struggled to rise. "Protect the crystal. It is our only hope."

"I will not leave you behind," the stag replied, its golden eyes shining with determination.

"You must," the wizard insisted. One last time, he raised his staff, and a wave of blinding light burst forth, forcing Malrik back for a brief moment. But the darkness was relentless. It enveloped the wizard, pulling him into its depths until his body and voice were silenced.

"A pitiful sacrifice," Malrik scoffed as he turned once more to the stag. "Now, Guardian, only you remain."

Alone in the clearing, the white stag felt the darkness closing in. It bowed its head, its glow intensifying. But Malrik was too powerful. With a cruel motion, he unleashed his black magic upon the stag. A sinister crackling filled the air as the curse took hold. The majestic antlers, once a symbol of purity, darkened as if the stars themselves had been snuffed out. The stag’s voice, once a beacon of wisdom throughout the forest, fell silent.

"You are mute now," Malrik said with a cold smile. "Your purity is broken, and the Crystal of Purity is no longer yours."

With a mighty blow, Malrik shattered the crystal. The fragments scattered in all directions, each carried away by an unseen magic that sent them deep into the world. The clearing, once bathed in a gentle glow, was now shrouded in utter darkness.

The white stag sank to its knees, its body heavy under the weight of the curse. Yet deep within, it felt a spark—a remnant of the wizard’s magic that had saved it. This spark, barely perceptible, kept hope alive. Despite the darkness surrounding it, the stag knew that balance was not lost forever.

"Your darkness may be strong, Malrik," it thought, its golden eyes still shining. "But the light will return."

As Malrik and his shadows vanished, the stag remained alone in the clearing. The wind carried the scent of ash, and the stars in the sky seemed distant and cold. Yet the world still had a future —an uncertain, distant future. Eleven years and six months later, a child would be born, carrying that spark of hope, ready to challenge the darkness once more.

Section 1: The Preparation

Chapter 1: A Touch of Magic

The last school days dragged on endlessly, as if time itself were working against Elina. The buzzing of insects, the laughter of children on the street, even the oppressive summer heat seemed to conspire against her. While her classmates cheerfully chatted about the upcoming holidays, Elina felt strangely disconnected.

Under the old chestnut tree in the garden, she found a moment of peace. The tree was her refuge, a place where she felt safe. A well-worn book about magical creatures lay open on her lap, its pages filled with Jorin’s hasty notes. His scrawled handwriting brought a smile to her lips.

"The Light Stag," she read aloud, "is a magical being that appears only in the darkest hours. Its antlers glow like a star and are said to carry the wisdom of past ages." She ran her fingers over the delicate drawing of the stag, lost in thought.

Jorin had brought the book back last vacation when he returned from the Magical Academy at Wolf’s Peak. His stories of flying brooms, talking picture frames, and glowing runes had transported her into a world she had scarcely imagined before.

"Maybe one day I could have an adventure like that too," she murmured.

Since Jorin had left for school two years ago, much had changed. His visits had become rare, and when he did return home, he was always full of energy, stories, and secrets. But in those moments when he was gone, Elina felt strangely lost.

"Elina, come inside! Dinner is ready!" called Aruna, her mother, from the kitchen.

The scent of freshly baked bread lured her into the house. She closed the book, stood up, and walked along the garden path as the sun slowly disappeared behind the rooftops.

At the dinner table, her mother awaited her, moving calmly as she filled the plates. Aruna, petite herself, had always radiated a warm, comforting presence. Her hands, shaped by daily life, moved with confidence and care.

"What did you do today?" she asked, placing a steaming bowl of vegetable soup in front of Elina.

"Read," Elina answered quietly. "The book Jorin gave me. It’s truly fascinating."

Aruna smiled, her eyes twinkling softly. "I’m glad you like it. Perhaps magic lies in your future as well."

Elina felt her heart beat a little faster. The thought that she might one day wield magic herself was so enticing it almost frightened her. But just as quickly, doubt crept in. She had never felt particularly special.

After dinner, she retreated to her room. The evening air drifted coolly through the open window, and the sky was painted in soft hues of orange. From the distant train station, she heard the rhythmic clatter of wheels—a familiar sound that always soothed her.

Tomorrow, Jorin would come home, and the thought of his return made her smile. He would bring stories, perhaps new books, and that peculiar, magical energy that always seemed to surround him.

With the book in hand, she sat by the window and gazed outside. The pages whispered of wonders waiting to be discovered. She traced the drawing of a phoenix and imagined what it would be like to see such a bird in real life. The stars began to appear, one by one. Elina felt a strange tension in the air, a kind of anticipation she couldn’t quite grasp. "Maybe this summer holds something special for me," she murmured softly.

Yet the night brought no clarity, only dreams filled with strange images—a stag with glowing antlers, a crystal shattering into countless fragments, and shadows creeping over everything. Elina woke several times, the visions still vivid before her eyes, but their meaning remained elusive.

As dawn broke, she rose early and stepped into the garden. Dew glistened on the blades of grass, and for a moment, the world seemed to stand still. She took a deep breath and felt a quiet determination growing inside her.

Perhaps this summer really would be different. Something deep within her whispered that the world was ready to reveal its secrets—if only she had the courage to discover them.

Chapter 2: The Silent Observer

The last school day before summer vacation began like any other, but to Elina, it felt heavier. The sun burned relentlessly on the asphalt, and the laughter of her classmates echoed through the schoolyard. It seemed as if everyone but her was brimming with excitement for the upcoming freedom. The swimming class that ended the day felt like an obstacle she still had to overcome.

Elina entered the pool with a nervous feeling in her stomach. The echoes of voices and the splashing of water bounced off the walls. The pool, which so many of her classmates associated with joy, was a place that challenged her every time. It wasn’t the water—she loved that. It was the constant stares and the quiet, sometimes not-so-quiet, remarks that weighed on her.

"Look at how she paddles!" giggled a girl as Elina struggled to swim another lap. Her shortened legs moved rhythmically, but it felt as if she was fighting against an invisible resistance —not just the water, but also the eyes that followed her.

The swimming instructor, standing at the edge of the pool, shook her head. "You need to try harder, Elina," she called, her tone more reproachful than encouraging.

Elina remained silent and kept swimming, even as her arms and legs ached. She knew that saying anything would only draw more attention. The other kids whispered, their words unclear, but their meaning evident. When she finally reached the end of the lap, she pulled herself to the edge of the pool and sank onto the ledge, exhausted.

With her feet still in the water, she tried to block out the teacher’s words and the giggles of the others. The cool water around her legs was soothing, a gentle reminder of something she loved. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, but a strange sensation pulled her from her thoughts.

A slight tingling spread through her hands as she dipped her fingertips into the water. It felt as if the water was reacting to her touch—as if it had come to life. She opened her eyes and watched as small ripples formed around her fingers, almost like a greeting.

For a moment, everything else was forgotten. The giggles, the harsh words from the teacher, the stares—all of it faded as she focused on the tingling. She lifted her hand and watched as the water clung to her fingers, as if unwilling to let go.

"What…?" she whispered, but before she could finish the thought, the teacher’s voice snapped her back to reality.

"Elina! We’re not done yet. Back in the water!"

The moment shattered like glass. The water stilled, the tingling disappeared, and Elina felt the magic of the moment slip away under the weight of reality. She nodded silently and climbed back into the pool, but the thought of what had just happened refused to leave her.

After class, she left the pool with a heavy heart. On the way home, however, a warm sense of relief settled over her as she remembered that Jorin would be back soon. His arrival was like a beacon of hope, a reminder that the world wasn’t always so cold and incomprehensible.

At home, the familiar scent of freshly baked bread greeted her. Her mother, Aruna, stood in the kitchen and turned toward her. "How was your day?" she asked in her usual gentle voice.

"It was okay," Elina replied evasively, setting down her bag. She knew her mother picked up on her tone, but Aruna didn’t press further.

"Jorin wrote to say he’ll be here soon," Aruna said with a smile. "He’s excited to see you."

Elina nodded, and a small smile crept onto her face. The thought of Jorin and his stories, the world he brought with him, felt like an escape.

That afternoon, she sat on the porch and waited. The train that would bring Jorin had yet to arrive, but she could feel the excitement growing inside her. When the familiar sound of the locomotive echoed in the distance, she jumped up and ran to the garden fence.

Jorin walked down the path, his bag slung over his shoulder and a broad grin on his face. "There you are!" he called when he saw her.

Elina ran toward him, her steps light and full of anticipation. "You’re finally here!"

"I have so much to tell you," he said, wrapping her in a hug. "But first, I want to hear what’s been going on with you."

Elina hesitated, but she knew she had to tell him about what had happened at the pool. She wasn’t sure why, but maybe Jorin would have an answer—or at least a story to make it all seem a little less frightening.

As they walked into the house together, Elina knew one thing for sure: This summer would be different. Something in the world had changed, and she could feel it.

Chapter 3: The Message from Wolf’s Peak

A gentle scent of freshly baked bread filled the room as Elina stepped into the kitchen. The morning sunlight streamed through the window, casting a warm glow over the wooden furniture. On her place at the table lay an envelope, its understated elegance making it stand out from the ordinary. The thick, cream-colored paper and the intricate golden script gave it an air of importance.

"What is this?" she asked, hesitating at the doorway.

Aruna, who was pouring tea into two delicate porcelain cups, looked up and smiled. "You’ll only find out if you open it."

Jorin, sitting at the table and biting into a piece of bread, grinned widely. "Come on, Elina! Don’t chicken out."

With a mix of curiosity and apprehension, she stepped closer. The flowing script forming her name had something magical about it. Her hands trembled slightly as she picked up the envelope. The material felt unexpectedly soft, almost like velvet, and a faint scent of lavender wafted from it.

Slowly, she slid open the envelope and pulled out the letter. The paper was heavy and smooth, the ink shimmering in the light. Her eyes scanned the first few lines, and for a moment, she held her breath.

"Elina Nightbloom, we are pleased to inform you that you have been granted a place at the Magical Academy of Wolf’s Peak. Your enrollment will commence at the beginning of the new school year. We warmly welcome you to our community."

The words burned themselves into her mind, yet she read them again to make sure she hadn’t imagined them. Her voice was barely more than a whisper as she asked, "I… I’ve been accepted?"

Jorin, still chewing, nodded enthusiastically. "Of course! What did you think? That they’d overlook you?"

Aruna stepped behind her, gently placing her hands on Elina’s shoulders. "Elina, you belong there. There’s no doubt about it."

An overwhelming mix of emotions swelled within Elina. Joy and pride clashed with fear and doubt. "But… what if I’m not good enough?" she murmured, barely admitting it to herself.

Jorin set down his cup and looked at her seriously. "That’s exactly what I thought before I started there. But trust me, Elina, the magic of Wolf’s Peak will show you what you’re capable of—and it’s more than you can imagine right now."

His words sparked a flicker of confidence in her, though uncertainty still lingered. Her mother pulled up a chair and sat beside her. "It’s natural to feel unsure when something new begins. But you’re stronger than you think, my child. And you won’t be alone."

The letter still rested in her hands, and she studied the golden letters elegantly forming her name. The feeling that her life was about to change was overwhelming. She sensed that the coming months could turn everything upside down—yet she knew she couldn’t pass up this opportunity.

"When do I leave?" she finally asked.

"In six weeks," Jorin replied. "That’s plenty of time to prepare. And don’t worry, I’ll be there with you. It’s much less intimidating when you have someone who knows the ropes."

A faint smile crossed Elina’s lips, and a spark of determination grew inside her. She wanted to take on this challenge, even if she didn’t yet know what awaited her at Wolf’s Peak.

Aruna stood up and placed a hand on Elina’s head. "I’m so proud of you," she said gently. "And I know your father would be, too."

The words hit Elina like a warm current. The thought of her father, whom her mother rarely spoke about, gave her an extra sense of courage. Somehow, it felt as if this was the path she was meant to take—not just for herself, but for her family as well.

"Then I suppose I should start packing," she finally said, attempting a confident smile.

Jorin leapt up, grinning from ear to ear. "That’s the Elina I know!"

The next few hours passed in a blur. Elina retrieved an old travel bag and began packing her favorite books, clothes, and small keepsakes. Meanwhile, Jorin told her stories of his first days at Wolf’s Peak, of the floating staircases and the enchanted libraries he had explored.

As evening fell and the stars appeared in the sky, Elina sat by the window with her packed bag beside her, gazing out. The thought that she would soon be part of this magical world was both thrilling and terrifying. But deep in her heart, she knew she was ready.

"Wolf’s Peak, here I come," she whispered before closing her eyes.

Chapter 4: Farewell and Departure

The final days before departure were a mix of excitement, nervousness, and quiet moments. As Elina packed her bag, Jorin’s stories about Wolf’s Peak echoed in her mind. She placed each book carefully in its spot, folded her clothes neatly, and paused when she held the small journal she planned to bring. Its empty pages felt like a promise—a promise of adventures waiting ahead.

Aruna was always nearby. Sometimes she helped Elina pack; other times she brought things her daughter might have forgotten. But now and then, she seemed lost in thought, her eyes filled with pride but also with worry.

"You’ll amaze them," Aruna said one evening as she brushed a stray lock from Elina’s face. Her voice was calm but full of conviction. "They will see how special you are."

Elina smiled faintly, but the words left a heavy feeling inside her. The responsibility they carried frightened her. What if she couldn’t meet her mother’s expectations? What if she failed?

On the last evening, she sat with Jorin on the veranda. The sky was clear, the stars twinkling like tiny beacons. "You know," Jorin began, leaning back in his chair, "I was just as nervous when I left for the first time. But once you get there, you’ll realize it feels right. You’ll see that you’re capable of more than you think."

Elina looked at him, wanting to say something, but the words caught in her throat. Instead, she just nodded, hoping he was right.

On the morning of departure, the air was cool and crisp. The rainbow-colored train waited at the platform, its shimmering carriages reflecting the light of the rising sun. Elina pulled her scarf tighter around her as she stood with her family. Everything felt so final.

Aruna held Elina’s hand tightly, as if trying to prolong the moment. "Remember who you are," she said softly. "And never forget—no matter what happens, you can always come home."

Jorin, standing a little apart, grinned. "Don’t worry, Mom. I’ll look after her."

Aruna pulled them both into an embrace, radiating warmth and reassurance. "You look after each other, understood?" Her voice wavered slightly, but her eyes remained clear and full of pride.

Saying goodbye was harder than Elina had expected. As she finally boarded the train with Jorin, she glanced back out the window. Aruna was still standing there, waving and smiling until her figure faded into the morning mist.

Inside the train, everything was different—like another world. The seats shimmered like silk, and the quiet hum of the carriage was soothing. Elina settled in next to Jorin and took a deep breath. "It feels strange to actually be leaving," she said finally.

"That’s normal when something new begins," Jorin replied with a grin. "But that’s the exciting part. You’ll see—it’ll be worth it."

As the train sped through the countryside, Elina watched the passing fields and forests. With every mile, the world seemed to change. It felt as though each bridge and curve was pulling her deeper into another reality.

Jorin told her stories about the school’s enchanted corridors, the living staircases, and the fascinating teachers. But Elina only half-listened. Her thoughts were on what lay ahead—and what she was leaving behind.

The journal rested on her lap, and her fingers traced its leather cover. It felt like a promise, an opportunity waiting to be filled. Yet she kept wondering: Was she truly ready for all this? As the train crossed a bridge high above a deep valley, she suddenly felt a spark of determination. Maybe she was afraid. Maybe she was uncertain. But she knew she had to try —not just for Jorin or her mother, but for herself.

"Jorin?" Her voice was quiet but steady.

"Yeah?" He turned to her.

"I’m glad you’re here," she said, offering a small smile. "It makes this easier."

Jorin placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We’re a team. We always have been."

His words anchored her. The tension that had followed her for days slowly began to fade. The train rolled on, and with each passing minute, her anticipation grew. Wolf’s Peak wasn’t just a place filled with magic. For Elina, it was the beginning of a new chapter—one she would write herself.

Chapter 5: The Mysterious Amulet

The landscape passed by Elina in an endless stream of green forests and blooming fields, glowing under the morning sun. The rainbow-colored train glided silently along the tracks, as if unwilling to disturb the world. Elina sat quietly in her seat, her gaze fixed on the passing scenery, while her thoughts swirled around everything that lay ahead.

Jorin leaned back in his seat, hands clasped behind his head. After a while, he reached into his bag and pulled out a small wooden box. Without a word, he opened it and slowly slid it across the table to Elina.

Curious, she glanced at him before her eyes fell on the box’s contents. Inside lay a delicate silver chain with a pendant that seemed to change color depending on the light. At times, it sparkled like a star; at others, it shimmered in a deep, enigmatic darkness.

"What is this?" she finally asked, carefully lifting the necklace.

"An amulet," Jorin explained, his voice unusually serious. "I found it in the attic, in a box with some of Father’s old things."

Elina froze. The mention of her father always made her pause. She had never met him, yet just hearing his name stirred a deep longing within her. "Are you sure it’s meant for me?" she asked softly, almost hesitantly.

"It feels right," Jorin replied. "When I saw it, I just knew it belonged to you. Maybe it’s more than just a piece of jewelry."

Carefully, Elina placed the amulet in her palm. The moment her fingers touched the cool pendant, a gentle tingling sensation ran through her. It felt as if the piece was greeting her, as if it had been waiting for her all along.

"This feels… strange," she murmured, running her fingers over its smooth surface. "Almost like it’s alive."

"That’s exactly what I thought," Jorin agreed. "I don’t know what it means, but I have a feeling it’s important—especially now."

Elina fastened the chain around her neck, letting the pendant rest lightly over her heart. A warm energy spread through her, both soothing and invigorating. She couldn’t explain what was happening, but she knew this amulet was more than just an ornament.

"Thank you," she said softly, meeting her brother’s gaze. His support meant more to her than she could put into words.

Jorin smiled, his eyes shining with pride. "I knew it was meant for you. And I’m sure it will help you."

For a while, they sat in silence. The train passed through a narrow gorge, with sunlight streaming down in long beams between towering cliffs. Elina clutched the amulet, her thoughts racing. What was its true significance? Why did it feel so connected to her?

Jorin finally broke the silence. "You know, there are stories about amulets like that. Some say they hold magic. Others believe they preserve memories or even offer protection."

"Do you think it’s… magical?" Elina asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Maybe," he answered without hesitation. "But I think you’ll have to find out for yourself."

Elina nodded, releasing the pendant, which rested gently against her chest. The tingling sensation remained—a quiet, steady pulse reminding her that she carried something special. She didn’t yet know what the amulet had in store for her, but she could feel that it would play a crucial role in her future.

The train continued its journey, and the scenery changed. The forests grew denser, the mountains taller. Elina gazed out the window, wondering what secrets awaited her at Wolf’s Peak—and what role the amulet would play in it all.

Whatever happened, she was ready to find out.

Section 2: Arrival and Discovery

Chapter 6: Arrival at Wolf’s Peak

The rainbow-colored train slowly came to a stop, accompanied by a soft hissing sound as the doors opened. Elina felt a tingling in her stomach—a mix of excitement and nerves. The platform buzzed with energy. Students of all ages disembarked, laughing, chatting, or calling out to one another across the crowd. The air itself seemed to hum with anticipation.

Stepping hesitantly from the train, Elina felt the solid stone beneath her feet. Surrounded by towering trees whose leaves shimmered in the light, the station felt like a hidden oasis. The platform stones were etched with glowing runes, emanating a gentle warmth.

"This is Wolf’s Peak," Jorin said, standing right behind her. His voice was warm and full of pride. "Do you see what I meant? It’s like the magic lingers in the air."

The diversity of people and magical beings bustling about the platform was overwhelming. A girl with shimmering butterfly wings helped a boy whose suitcase had suddenly taken on a life of its own and was rolling in the wrong direction. A group of students sent tiny orbs of light dancing above their heads, laughing as they showed off their skills. A teacher stood nearby, his long cloak billowing in a wind that wasn’t there.

Elina paused, her hand gripping her suitcase, taking in the scene. She wondered if she truly belonged here.

Jorin noticed her hesitation and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Don’t worry," he said softly. "At Wolf’s Peak, it’s not about who you were—it’s about who you can become. You’ll find your place."

A boy in a floating wheelchair glided past them. The decorations on his chair glowed softly, and he moved with effortless confidence. Elina watched as he gestured, helping another student whose suitcase was too heavy to carry.

"You’re never alone here," Jorin added. "That’s what makes this place special."

The massive gate leading to the school was an impressive structure of black stone, laced with golden and silver runes that pulsed in a steady rhythm. Standing before it was a woman with

striking silver hair cascading over her shoulders like a waterfall. Her posture radiated both authority and warmth.

"That’s Lenara, the headmistress," Jorin whispered. "You’ll like her."

Lenara raised her hands, and the crowd quieted. Her voice was clear and powerful, yet welcoming. "Welcome to the Magical Academy of Wolf’s Peak! Each of you carries something unique within you. Here, it does not matter where you come from or what challenges you bring. What matters is who you are and who you can become."

Her words struck deep. For the first time, Elina felt as though she might truly belong, as if this place would accept her just as she was.

Slowly, the students flowed through the now-open gate. Jorin gave Elina’s hand a brief squeeze before leading her forward. "This is it, Elina. Your adventure begins now."

Beyond the gate lay a vast courtyard, surrounded by towering ancient buildings seamlessly integrated into the landscape. The walls seemed to be made from the same stone as the surrounding cliffs, and magical lights floated above the pathways. The school wasn’t separate from nature—it was a part of it, a place that felt as though it had existed for centuries.

Elina couldn’t tear her gaze away. Every corner of Wolf’s Peak seemed to whisper stories, waiting to be uncovered. The magic here wasn’t hidden—it was alive, woven into everything she saw.

"This is the central plaza," Jorin explained as he led her forward. "From here, you can reach the dorms, classrooms, and the grand dining hall."

Elina nodded silently, still absorbing everything. She felt the weight of the amulet around her neck and wondered if this place held the answers to the questions that had followed her all her life.

"I need to take care of a few things," Jorin said eventually. "But you’ll be fine, right? Your orientation starts in an hour."

She watched as he disappeared into the crowd. For a moment, she felt alone, but then she took a deep breath and looked around. Wolf’s Peak was overwhelming but also breathtaking. And maybe, just maybe, this was where she would discover who she truly was.

With a small smile, she stepped forward. The adventure had begun.