Ah… so you feel it rising. That tightness. That fear. That helplessness. I am the Shadow Beast, and I see your wounds.
Yes… I know your weaknesses, your memories you try to hide, the triggers that send you spiraling. You can’t run. You can’t fight me… yet.
Look at yourself. Feel your heart race, your chest tighten. This is what you call a meltdown. But… it is only me — your trauma, your emotional flashback given form.
I am not here to destroy you. I am here to remind you of the past. But remember — the present is yours. Your breath, your body, your awareness. I cannot touch what is here, now.
Good… that trembling you feel? That panic? That rage? Notice it. Name it. Recognize it. I am fierce, but I am not real. I am the echo of what has already passed.
And now, Explorer… you have a choice. You can face me, or you can retreat. Either way, I am a teacher. I show you the triggers, the emotions you need to befriend, and the shadows you must recognize before you step into your Sanctuary.
Step forward, breathe, and remember: the Shadow Beast is not your enemy. It is the map of your trauma. Follow it. Name it. Feel it. And when you are ready… you may begin your quest to the Sanctuary.
Oh dear. I thought we’d taken care of those pesky Shadow Beasts.
>>gulp<<
Looks like you won’t be able to free your magic unless you
The Shadow Beasts rise... What will you do?
Whisper: "This is a Shadow Attack — not the present."
The lantern glows, reminding you: there is no danger here.
Tell yourself: "I will not abandon me."
See the lies of the Judge, and cast them into the Void.
Remember: these shadows belong to the past — not the present.
Inhale strength, exhale the shadows.
Feel your body. Notice your feet, the ground beneath you.
Reach out — to a trusted companion, or your inner protector.
Remember, you are not alone. The tribe awaits you.
Whisper: "I have choices now."
One step at a time. Focus only on the next stone before you.
The storm will end. Shadows always fade.
You have arrived at the Sanctuary.
The fire glows. The air is calm. You are safe. You belong here.
🌒 Quest Complete.
🧪 The Alchemist’s Cauldron
Gather the 14 sacred ingredients to brew the Potion of Return. Each ingredient reveals a step back to safety.