The hammer, warm now, pulsed in Isla's hand. The Forgemaster gestured to dark metal shards, tainted by Thane. "Transform them," she commanded.
Isla, resolute, raised the hammer. "How?"
"Listen," the Forgemaster said. "Feel the hammer's rhythm, its purpose. Then, strike."
Isla closed her eyes, focusing on the hammer's subtle vibrations.
A faint melody resonated within, a song of hope. She felt a connection, an understanding.
She moved, the hammer swinging rhythmically, guided by the melody. Each strike on the shards sent sparks flying, each clang echoing.
The shards began to glow, their dark surface shimmering with gold. Fear and despair dissipated, replaced by peace.
Kai watched, mesmerized, as Isla transformed the metal. He saw her fear replaced by determination.
The Forgemaster nodded. "You wield the hammer's song. You've transformed darkness to light."
The transformed shards glowed warmly. "These are beacons, sources of hope. They'll guide your path."
"What now?" Isla asked, her voice strong.
"You must understand," the Forgemaster said, "the true nature of your enemy. He corrupts not just metal, but minds. You must learn to purify both."
She pointed to a shadowy corner of the forge. "There lies a test, a reflection of Thane's influence. Face it, and you will learn to cleanse the darkness that seeks to consume you."