"The 'Sleuth of Shadows.'"

Runebelle hesitated after hearing that name announced by her sister in her mind. "It's a little too..."

Sadie, sensing Runebelle's hesitation, finished her sentence. "Mysterious?"

Runebelle nodded. "Yeah, it's kind of...mysterious. I'm not sure about it."

Sadie gave her a warm smile on the inside. "Trust me, it'll be fine. It's the perfect name for our investigation, uncovering secrets and revealing truths without having to reveal who we truly are."

With Runebelle's doubts put to rest, they proceeded to create the account under the name "The Sleuth of Shadows."

Runebelle, with Sadie's guidance, started actively engaging in various topics on the game's online forums. She shared the insights and strategies they had used to defeat the doppelgangers and provided helpful advice to fellow players who were facing similar challenges. Her posts garnered positive responses, with other players gave their gratitude for her assistance.

After their online activities, they decided it was time to tackle the real world. They went shopping for Runebelle's new school outfit, making sure it was a perfect fit and in line with her personal style. Runebelle tried on the new clothes, realizing they not only looked great but were comfortable and allowed for better mobility.

Returning home, Runebelle decided to try her hand at cooking dinner. With Sadie's encouragement and her Mother's assistance from within, she successfully prepared a delicious meal for herself, learning valuable cooking tips along the way.

At night, Rune belle settled into her bed. It had been an eventful day. She felt a growing sense of confidence and contentment.

Runebelle's Mother, whispered within her mind, "I'm so proud of you, Runebelle. You've come a long way today."

With a smile on her face, Runebelle closed her eyes and whispered back, "Thank you, Mom. I couldn't have things today it without you."

With that heartfelt exchange, Runebelle drifted off to sleep.

Runebelle awoke to the warmth of the morning sun streaming through her curtains. It was a new day, and her first order of business was to check the forums of Epic Quest: Realm of Shadows. When she was logged in, her eyes widened in astonishment at what she saw.

The threads about "The Sleuth of Shadows" were filled with posts from the players she had helped the previous day. They praised her for her extensive knowledge of the game and the valuable advice she had provided. It brought a smile to her face.

With a sense of fulfillment, Runebelle continued to engage with the gaming community, sharing her insights, strategies, and answering questions. She was becoming a trusted source of information, all while maintaining her identity as "The Sleuth of Shadows."

Years had passed, and Runebelle was no longer the high school student she once was. She had embarked on her college journey, and the responsibilities of her studies had grown. However, her dedication to the game and her ongoing role as "The Sleuth of Shadows" on the Epic Quest: Realm of Shadows forums remained unwavering.

On a sunny college morning, Runebelle sat at her desk, a laptop before her, and a pile of textbooks stacked to the side. She checked the forums as part of her daily routine, still dedicated to assisting her fellow players and maintaining her vigilant watch for any hints that could connect the game's narrative to Shadowcroft's actions in the real world.

She scrolled through the forum threads. Runebelle felt familiarity with her two companions who shared her thoughts from within. Her Mother's offered a gentle good morning, followed by Sadie's inquisitive greeting.

Runebelle responded in kind. "Good morning to both of you. Another day, another set of mysteries to unravel."

Runebelle suddenly blinked in surprise when she noticed that she had a private message notification on the forums. It was a rare occurrence, and she wasn't quite sure how to proceed. She quickly turned to her companions for guidance.

"Hey, Sadie, and Mom," Runebelle began, "I just received a private message on the forums. I've never gotten one of these before. What should I do? Should I open it?"

Her Mother responded, "Runebelle, dear, it's entirely up to you. You can choose to open it or not. Just be cautious and consider whether the message seems genuine and relevant to your interests."

Sadie chimed in with a hint of curiosity. "It might be from someone who appreciates your help on the forums or someone with a game-related question. Go ahead and open it. We can always decide how to respond once we see what it says."

With her companions' advice in mind, Runebelle decided to open the private message to see what lay within.

The private message read:

Skylagirl296:

Hey there, Sleuth of Shadows! I can't believe I'm actually messaging you. I'm a huge fan of your posts and how you help everyone out on the forums. You're like, a legend here!

The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

So, I heard some wild rumors lately. People are saying that Epic Quest: Realm of Shadows might be turning into a real-life game soon. Can you believe it? I thought I'd reach out to you because, well, if these rumors are true, we should totally meet up and explore this together! I'd love to hear your thoughts on it.

Hope to hear from you soon!

Runebelle read the message, feeling some excitement and curiosity about the rumors mentioned. She looked to Sadie and her Mother for their thoughts.

Runebelle mulled over Skylagirl296's message and her own feelings about it. She finally mustered the courage to speak to Sadie and her Mother.

"I've never had a friend before, not in real life or online, other than Micah... I've been alone for so long that it's almost become... comforting. But now, this message from Skylagirl296, it's like a whole new world is opening up, and I'm scared. What if she doesn't like me or thinks I'm weird?"

Sadie echoed in Runebelle’s mind, "Runebelle, this person reached out to you because they admire what you've done. They're a fan, and that means they already like you. Give it a chance. You never know what kind of friendship might blossom."

Her Mother followed. "Runebelle, dear, you've come so far. It's natural to feel scared, but even if you are, don’t forget that we are going to be with you no matter what. Go on hun, write a reply to her.”

Runebelle took a deep breath. "Okay, I'll give it a try."

She typed her response, her fingers trembling slightly:

SleuthofShadows:

Hi Skylagirl296,

Thank you so much for your kind words. It means a lot to me that my posts have helped you and others. As for the rumors, I’ve heard them too, and I think it’s intriguing. Meeting up sounds like a good idea. We will meet at…

Runebelle stared at her response, her fingers hovering over the keyboard. "Oh no," she muttered, a frown forming on her face. "I don't have a meeting place in mind."

Sadie chimed in helpfully. "What about the Silver Star Arcade?"

Runebelle hesitated. "Why there?"

Sadie responded with a nostalgic tone." Oh, I used to go there before. It's a little run-down, but people still like to go there. It's got this charm, you know? Plus, it's a place where gamers gather, so it makes sense for you two to meet there."

Runebelle considered Sadie's suggestion and felt a warmth in her heart. "Alright, the Silver Star Arcade it is." She began typing again:

SleuthofShadows:

Hi Skylagirl296,

Thank you so much for your kind words. It means a lot to me that my posts have helped you and others. As for the rumors, I’ve heard them too, and I think it’s intriguing. Meeting up sounds like a good idea. How about we meet at the Silver Star Arcade this Saturday at 2 PM? Looking forward to it!

-R.

She hit send and leaned back in her chair. "Well, it's done. Now we’ll wait until Saturday…” Risebelle then sighed. “Now let’s deal with…the first day of College …”

Runebelle, filled with excitement and nervousness, prepared herself for her first day of college. With her backpack packed and her mind, she headed out the door and off towards the institution of higher learning.

On her first day of college, Runebelle felt unease while walking through the full campus. Students chatted and laughed in small groups, and she overheared whispers and hushed comments about her unique hair.

Feeling self-conscious, Runebelle made her way to her first class, hoping to blend into the background and go unnoticed. However, it seemed that her striking hair had already garnered attention.

"Whoa, she's so tall. Must be at least six feet," one student remarked.

"Look at her hair, it's like a rainbow," another whispered.

"She looks kinda odd, don't you think? Creepy-looking." a third chimed in.

Runebelle navigated the sea of students. Sadie and Runebelle's Mother, ever-present in her thoughts, felt the profound sadness that came to their shared consciousness.

Sadie knew that they needed to uplift Runebelle's spirits. She started. "Remember, Runebelle, it's our differences that make us unique and special. Don't let the opinions of others define your self-worth. You're here to learn, grow, and follow your path."

Runebelle's Mother added, "You have the strength to rise above this. Be yourself and let your inner light shine. You are not alone, and you'll find friends who appreciate you for who you are."

Runebelle, bolstered by their words, pushed through the initial discomfort and kept her gaze focused on her goals.

When she entered her first classroom, she picked a seat in the back, hoping to find some semblance of anonymity. Her classmates glanced her way with curiousity.

"Do you think she's a model or something?" a girl seated nearby asked her friend.

"Maybe she's an athlete. With that height, she could be," the friend responded, glancing at Runebelle with interest.

Runebelle encountered similar reactions from her fellow students throughout the day. Most students seemed to avoid interacting with her. She felt like an outsider once more, and the loneliness that had plagued her in high school threatened to resurface.

However, when she entered her final class for the day, a familiar girl with short red hair and warm brown skin turned to her with a friendly smile.

"Hey there," the girl greeted Runebelle. "I couldn't help but notice your hair. It's beautiful."

Runebelle was suprised by the unexpected compliment. She managed a small, grateful smile in response. "Thank you. I'm Runebelle."

The girl extended her hand. "I'm Milaca. It's nice to meet you, Runebelle."

At that moment, a complex whirlwind of emotions swirled within Runebelle. She was taken by surprise by the friendliness of the encounter, but she already knew this person. They had a history together in her younger days.

Confused and guarded, Runebelle shook Milaca's hand with a tentative smile. "Nice to meet you, Milaca."

Runebelle's Mother and Sadie, both aware of the past events, resonated with her sense of uncertainty.

Runebelle and Milaca walked together after school. The conversation flowed between them. They talked about various topics, including their college experiences, hobbies, and aspirations. Despite Runebelle's lingering uncertainty about their history, she found herself enjoying the conversation and Milaca's friendly company.

After awhile, Runebelle slowed her pace, turning to Milaca thoughtfully. "Milaca, I have to ask something. Are you sure this is the first time we've met? It's just... you seem so familiar to me."

Milaca met Runebelle's gaze with a warm and genuine smile. "Yes, this is truly our first meeting, but I feel a connection with you, Runebelle. Maybe it's just a strong sense of déjà vu you’re having? Me too but regardless, I'm glad we've met now!"

Runebelle's curiosity persisted, but she decided to trust Milaca's words for the time being. “Well, I have a friend that I need to meet, so I’ll be going now…”

Runebelle turned to leave, but she felt Milaca's gentle hand on hers. Startled, she turned back, only to find Milaca getting close with a slightly flushed. Before Runebelle could react, Milaca pulled her down to her level and pressed a soft, unexpected kiss on her lips.

Runebelle blinked in surprise. ‘... I wasn't expecting that.’