As they crossed the mountain, they entered a strange forest. The trees were twisted, and the air felt heavy.
"This is the Forest of Illusions," Lyra whispered. "It plays with your mind."
Suddenly, Arin saw something shocking—his village, his parents, calling him back.
"Arin! Come home!" his mother cried.
He stepped forward, tears in his eyes.
But Lyra grabbed his hand.
"It's not real!" she shouted.
Arin blinked—and the vision disappeared.
The forest grew darker, and whispers filled the air.
"You don't belong… Turn back… You will fail…"
Arin felt fear rising inside him.
But then he remembered the glowing map—and the voice.
"No," he said firmly. "I won't turn back."
As soon as he spoke, the forest began to fade. The illusions disappeared, and a clear path opened before them.
Lyra smiled slightly.
"You're stronger than you look."