The court healer approaches.
"Your Highness, the only remedy is the moonflower, a rare plant that grows deep in the Eldermist Forest. But the forest is cursed-no one who ventures in returns."
Liora's resolve hardens.
"Then I'll be the first."
----
With her trusted horse and a small satchel of supplies, Liora rides to the edge of the Eldermist Forest. As she dismounts, the atmosphere shifts-the air is heavy, the trees dark and foreboding. She tightens her grip on her sword, muttering to herself,
"You can do this."
As she ventures deeper, eerie sounds fill the air-whispers, rustling leaves, and the distant howl of a fox. Suddenly, she hears a low growl behind her. Turning, she sees a man with piercing amber eyes leaning casually against a tree.
"You're brave, little princess," he says, his voice smooth and teasing. "Or foolish."
Liora draws her sword.
"Who are you? Show yourself!"
The man smirks. In a flash, he transforms into a massive fox with nine shimmering tails. Liora's eyes widen, but she doesn't back down.
"A gumiho," she whispers. "Stay back!"
Taejin, the gumiho, chuckles and shifts back into his human form.
"This is my forest, human. Trespassers aren't welcome."
"I'm not leaving without the moonflower," Liora snaps.
"Well then," Taejin replies, a mischievous grin spreading across his face, "you'll have to go through me."
---
Taejin lunges, and Liora barely deflects his attack. Despite his playful demeanor, his strength is overwhelming. Liora fights back fiercely, her skill surprising him. The two trade blows-Taejin using his supernatural agility and tails, while Liora relies on her wits and training.
"You're persistent, I'll give you that," Taejin says, dodging a swing of her sword. "But you're out of your depth."
"I've faced worse than you," Liora retorts, slashing at him again.
Finally, Taejin knocks the sword from her hand and pins her against a tree with one of his tails. For a moment, they're inches apart, their eyes locked.
"You're not like the others," Taejin murmurs, intrigued. "Most humans run screaming by now."
Liora glares at him.
"And you're not as terrifying as the stories claim."
Taejin laughs, releasing her.
"I'll let you go this time, princess. But if you return, I won't be so kind."
As he disappears into the shadows, Liora retrieves her sword, her heart racing.
"We'll see about that," she mutters, determination burning brighter than ever.
---
Back at the castle, Liora studies a map of the forest. Her hand hovers over the location of the moonflower.
"I'm not giving up," she says to herself. "No matter what."
Meanwhile, Taejin watches her from a distance, perched on a tree branch just outside the castle walls. A sly smile plays on his lips.
"This is going to be interesting."
---