INT. FOREST CLEARING - DUSK

The light begins to fade as Ayodele searches frantically. She tries listening for a sign but hears only the deepening CHORUS of the forest coming alive in the dark. Fear creeps back in as shadows seem to TWIST and LURCH around her.

She stops, fighting tears, when a faint GOLDEN GLOW catches her eye between two massive tree trunks. Slowly, she picks her way toward it, pushingaside vines.

There, atop a small rise, stands the HEART TREE in all its glory - branches hung with golden fruits and rich green leaves that GLOW LIKE STARS in the gathering dusk.

Relief and awe flood Ayodele as she approaches the sacred place. But before she can rest, a sound like RUSTLING SILK makes her WHIRL.

Through the flickering leaves emerges the shimmering form of OYA once more, eyes gleaming with pride.

OYA
You have persevered well, little one. Now come - it is time for your reward, and your village's salvation.

Ayodele joins Oya at the tree's gnarled roots. Ghostly faces seem to peer from its bark, and winds sigh secrets through its boughs. Oya places a hand on the trembling girl's brow.

Visions ASSAULT Ayodele - the dark shadow is revealed as a great serpent poisoning the earth. But a blue-robed figure emerges to battle it, and cleanses the land. Green spreads once more as joyful souls return to the forest in thanks.

Oya removes her hand with a satisfied smile.

OYA
Now you understand. Return to your village with hope. The shadow has passed, and brighter days will soon dawn for all.

Dawn light spreads rosy fingers through the trees as Ayodele hikes home, heart full to bursting with what she has seen.

EXT. VILLAGE - DAWN
As the first rays peek over the plain, cries of relief and joy ERUPT from the village center. Ayodele has returned, spirit aglow with new purpose and wisdom.

She recounts all that transpired in the haunted forest. The elders beam and embrace her, then send messengers out across the land with the restorative news.

As Ayodele looks out on her cheering village, Grandmother by her side, the first birdsong of a new day RISES above the trees that will always be her home and guardians. Her gift has awoken, and new adventures surely await this brave soul in the enchanted wood.