As Annabelle and Liam navigated the dark forest, they stumbled upon a hidden clearing. In the center of the clearing stood a mysterious figure, cloaked in shadows.
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What is it with people emerging from the dark, she thought. Annabelle felt a shiver in the pit of her stomach as the figure stepped forward, revealing a charming smile.
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"Hello, Annabelle," the stranger said, his eyes gleaming with curiosity. "My name is Elijah. I've been searching for you."
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Annabelle's instincts screamed at her to be cautious. Who was this stranger, and what did he want from her?
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Elijah's eyes seemed to bore into Annabelle's soul as if searching for something. "I know all about your parents, Annabelle," he said, his voice low and mysterious. "Emma and Jack. They're in a grave danger."
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Annabelle's heart skipped a beat. "What do you know about my parents?" she demanded, her hand on Liam's arm tightened.
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Elijah smiled again, his eyes glinting with secrets. "I know they're being held by the Order of the Silverwood. And I can help you rescue them."
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Liam's eyes narrowed. "Why would you help us?" he growled.
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Elijah shrugged. "Let's just say I have my own reasons for wanting to take down the order. And I think Annabelle's... unique abilities could be the key to our success."
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Annabelle felt a surge of hope. Could this stranger really help her find her parents? But Liam's skepticism was infectious. What was Elijah's true motive?
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"I don't trust him," Liam whispered to Annabelle, his eyes fixed on Elijah.
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But Annabelle hesitated. Elijah's words had sparked a glimmer of hope. Maybe, just maybe, he could lead her to her parents.
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"Tell me more," Annabelle said, her voice cautious.
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Elijah nodded, a smile spreading across his face. "The Order is hiding your parents in a heavily guarded fortress deep in the heart of the forest. But I know a way in."
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Liam snorted. "And why should we believe you?"
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Elijah's smile never wavered. "Because, Liam, I have something you want. Something that will guarantee your cooperation."
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Elijah paused, his eyes glinting with triumph. "I have information about your past, Liam. Information you've been desperate to uncover."
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Liam's eyes narrowed, his jaw clenched. Annabelle curiosity was piqued, she knew he was hiding secrets, but what could Elijah possibly know?
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Liam's eyes flashed with anger, but Elijah just chuckled. "Oh, Liam. You're so predictable. You've been searching for answers about your family for years. And I have them."
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"What do you know?" Liam growled, his fists clenched.
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Elijah smiled again. "Let's just say I know what happened to your sister. And I know why you've been searching for her all these years."
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Liam's eyes went white, his face pale. Annabelle had never seen him like this before.
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"Tell me," Liam whispered, his voice barely audible.
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Elijah leaned in, his voice dropping to a whisper. "Meet me at the old oak tree in the heart of the forest at midnight. And come alone."
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With that, Elijah turned and disappeared into the shadows, leaving Annabelle and Liam staring after him in confusion.
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