At the far end of the hall, an elevated dais held a magnificent throne, intricately carved from dark wood and inlaid with shimmering gemstones that caught the light like stars. This was the seat of the chieftain, a symbol of leadership and courage, where the wise gathered to discuss matters of the realm. Above the throne, a massive tapestry depicted the great exploits of the gods, weaving together the past and present, reminding all of their storied heritage.

As evening approached, the hall filled with the scent of roasting meats and the sound of clinking goblets. Feasting tables, laden with food and drink, stretched across the chamber, inviting all to partake in the bounty of the earth and sea. The flickering firelight cast a golden hue, illuminating the faces of warriors, craftsmen, and storytellers alike, each contributing to the rich tapestry of their shared culture. In this sacred space, bonds were forged, stories spun, and the legacy of their ancestors honored, ensuring that the heart of their community would beat strong for generations to come.

As they ventured deeper into the great hall of the chieftain, they entered the living quarters of the Jarl and his kin. The chambers were expansive and adorned with lavish decorations. Skillfully carved wooden panels divided the spaces, providing seclusion while allowing the light from flickering torches to dance across the walls.

The walls were draped with richly woven tapestries that depicted scenes of the great fjords, legendary beasts, and symbols of good fortune. The colors were deep and bold, reflecting the Jarl's wealth and the prosperity of his clan. Exquisite horn vases and intricately carved stone figures stood proudly on shelves and tables, adding a touch of grandeur and refinement to the halls.

"Why were you so late?" a man named Harald Freysson asked, a little nervous. He was a baron of the court, wearing a tunic and covering his head with headgear.

[System Level: 10/12]

[Power level: 90,000/100,000]

[Beast type: Kun Peng]

[Name: Harald Freysson]

[Age: 49]

[Clan: Ironhart Clan]

[Race: Kaelith]

[Blood-type: Verdant]

[Blood Color: Green]

[HP: 100/100]

[EP: 49/50]

[AP: 60 units]

[Mana: 100/100]

[Beast Energy: 100/100]

[Beast Race type: Zephyrbeasts and Lunafins]

[Beast Ability:]

-Flight

-Energy Manipulation

[Skills: 64/70]

[Action Speed: 1-2 seconds per action]

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[Skill Cooldowns: 6-15 seconds]

[Movement Speed: 10-15 units per second]

[Base Strength: 14]

[Damage Output: 21+ damage per hit]

[Carrying Capacity: 201+ units]

[State Points: 190/200]

"We were late because of the rain," replied Marlene, wiping the drops of rain from her face.

"Okay, then hurry," Harald replied urgently. "The Empress is in pain and waiting for you." Marlene nodded and walked behind him as they made their way to the Empress's room. They passed through many rooms filled with fineries and riches before reaching the Empress's chambers. Marlene and Harald entered quickly, and Marlene sat down in front of the Empress, who was laying in her bed, wrapped in blankets.

"Please, Marlene, help me," the Empress pleaded, her voice strained. "I couldn't bear this pain any longer."

Gently, Marlene took the Empress's hand and reassured her, "Do not worry, Your Majesty. I am here to help you through this. Just breathe and focus on your breathing."

The Empress began to slowly breathe into her palm, inhaling through her nose. Her eyes fixed on Marlene's. She seemed more relaxed, but she still looked pale and tired. As the Empress's pain grew stronger, Marlene helped her through each wave, giving her encouraging words and support. The room smelled of healing herbs, and the sound of raindrops on the palace windows created a calming atmosphere.

Everyone anxiously waited outside for the good news. After a few hours, they hurriedly emerged from the room. "It's not a baby girl, but a boy," Marlene paused and observed the expressions of everyone, "and he was stillborn."

The words hung heavily in the air, causing a collective gasp to escape from the crowd. Tears welled up in the Emperor’s eyes, who had hoped for a healthy baby girl to change the fortune of Mistwood Village. He approached his wife, Empress Hannah, whose face filled with disbelief and grief. The room filled with a somber silence, only interrupted by the sound of muffled sobs and whispered prayers.

"All of this happened because of that curse, Emperor. Can you do me a favor?" Empress Hannah was in pain as she held his hand and pleaded.

"Whatever the Empress asked of me, I did anything to fulfill your wish," Emperor William gently held her hand and assured her.

"Just follow the instructions given by Elder Erik Thorvaldsen," Empress Hannah said, causing the Emperor to fall silent. "Please do it for the sake of our deceased child," she added.

"Alright, alright. I will do as you asked. Just rest and try not to stress," Emperor William said as he adjusted her blanket.

No one knew the true nature of the curse, but they were desperate for a solution. They sought the guidance of wise elder Erik Thorvaldsen, who advised them to perform a ritual to appease the spirit and break the curse. The ritual involved sacrificing the village's most cherished possession, an ancient golden statue of their founding deity who governed the seasons and was responsible for rainfall.

Reluctantly, the villagers agreed to carry out the ritual. They gathered in the village square, holding the golden statue with heavy hearts. As they recited ancient incantations, a dense fog surrounded the village, and a bone-chilling wind swept through the air. Suddenly, the statue emitted a blinding light, and the ground beneath them shook violently.

A powerful earthquake struck the village, and everyone cried out in shock. The ground continued to tremble. Everyone fell over themselves in fear. All eyes turned toward the sky and saw a bright green glow. It illuminated all that it touched like a beacon that drew everyone's attention. Then the light faded away. The villagers slowly climbed up, dazed, to stand at attention. In front of them stood a figure cloaked in a white cloak. His face was hidden by a large hood, which concealed all details except for his large dark eyes. A black scepter protruded from a silver belt strapped around his waist. On his back hung his long sword and shield, both made of the finest steel and forged to last forever. He slowly dropped his hood back and looked at them. This warrior wore a white mask of visage. His eyes appeared gentle, yet frightening. There was something about him that gave everyone chills.

After the chaos subsided, the villagers noticed a change in their village's map, with the most peculiar addition being the sudden appearance of a lake. The villagers started gathering around this mysterious lake, their curiosity aroused. Unlike any other lake in the region, it shimmered with an otherworldly glow, reflecting the colors of the sky in its waters. Some believed it to be a sign from the gods, while others feared it was a warning of more misfortune to come. In any case, this lake had a strange effect upon the village folk, who grew increasingly superstitious. For some reason, the people of Mistwood became fearful, unwilling to go outside. And when they did venture outdoors, their faces looked like ghosts and their eyes glazed over with fear.