SHAAPIT

Prologue

In the dense, mystical forest, in the night of new moon where ancient legends whispered among the rustling leaves, a small girl of about five years old moved with a boldness that belied her tender age. She possessed a fearless spirit that set her apart from other children.

With a gleam of determination in her dark eyes, she clutched a special gem tightly in her palm. It seemed to hold secrets of the cosmos within its depths. Legends spoke of its powers to bring luck and protection to those who possessed it, but also of the dangers it attracted from jealous spirits and wicked entities.

She knew she had to hide the gem where no one could find it. She scampered through the tangled undergrowth, her feet nimble as she navigated the ancient paths known only to the bravest souls.

Discovering a remote meadow filled with wildflowers, she bent down next to a massive banyan tree. Using firm hands, she dug a little hole at the base of the tree's enormous roots while muttering protective mantras that her grandmother had taught her. 

As she carefully dug a small hole, a rustling in the bushes caught her attention. Emerging from the foliage was a boy a couple of years older than her. He was known for his mischievous nature and curiosity about the forest's secrets.

"What are you doing?"He asked, his eyes widening at the sight

Her gaze turned fierce as she looked at the boy. "This is none of your business," she replied firmly, her voice tinged with authority that belied her age.

The boy took a step closer, his curiosity piqued. "But what is that stone ? Why are you hiding it?"

Her expression softened briefly as she looked at the gem, then back at. "It's special, and I have to keep it safe," she said cryptically

A gentle wind whispered through the leaves as she inserted the precious stone into its earthly haven, as though the forest itself blessed her decision. She patted the dirt softly over the stone, covering it carefully until it was out of sight.

She took a step back and looked over her work, satisfied. With the ancient tree protecting it and the spirits of the forest blessing it, she felt the stone would be safe here. She grinned mischievously and mumbled a chant, her heart full of excitement for the adventures that were ahead in the mysterious depths of the forest.

As she stood up, she gave the boy a final look, her eyes daring him to question her again. Without a word, she turned and disappeared into the shadows of the forest, leaving the boy standing there, his mind buzzing with curiosity.