in an off-the-record consultation with the realm's most venerated fortune teller, i sought guidance on the trials that lay ahead. earlier doubts clouded my judgement, yet her wisdom did not rebuff my queries. instead, she spoke of ancient systems of knowledge, advising me to go back to the start, to uncover truths long buried. 'twas a counsel that heartened my spirit, reminding me that even in the shadows of uncertainty, light oft finds a way to pierce through.