Onward

Millennia ago, magic flourished in a vibrant realm filled with mythical beings. However, as technology advanced over the years, the power of magic diminished and became a forgotten relic of the past.

In the present day, Ian Lightfoot and his older brother Barley reside in New Mushroomton. Despite their differences—Ian's struggles with self-esteem and Barley's enthusiasm for role-playing games—they both cope with the loss of their father, Wilden Lightfoot.

On Ian's sixteenth birthday, their mother, Laurel, gifts her sons a magical staff, a rare Phoenix gem, and a letter outlining a spell to bring their father back for one day. The boys feel a surge of hope as they hold the long-forgotten objects from their father.

Ian unexpectedly casts the visitation spell, but the outcome is only the lower half of their father appearing before them. The Phoenix gem shatters during the process, sparking a new quest to find another gem to fully restore Wilden's body.

Determined to reunite with their father, Ian and Barley commandeer Barley's beloved van, 'Guinevere,' and set off on their adventurous quest. Their mother, realizing they are missing, begins her pursuit to find them.

Their first stop leads them to Manticore's Tavern, which has transformed into a family restaurant. When Ian argues with Corey, the Manticore, she realizes how mundane her life has become, igniting chaos and inadvertently burning their only clue to the gem.

With the map destroyed, the brothers find a clue on a children's menu, pointing them to 'Raven's Point.' Meanwhile, Laurel befriends Corey, learning about an ancient curse that threatens their quest.

As they trek toward Raven's Point, the brothers face various challenges, including avoiding the police and a gang of motorcycle pixies. Ian starts to harness his spell-casting abilities while relying on Barley's knowledge from RPGs.

Upon reaching a dead end, Barley makes a heartbreaking decision to sacrifice Guinevere by using it to create a landslide, blocking their pursuers. This act underscores Barley's emotional struggle with losing Wilden and his determination to protect his brother.

The brothers return to Ian's high school, where Ian's frustrations lead to a confrontation with Barley. After a heated argument, Ian walks away, reflecting on the sacrifices his brother has made and the fatherly bond they've shared.

Realizing Barley's importance in his life, Ian returns to reconcile just as Barley discovers the needed gem in a historic fountain. However, this discovery triggers the ancient curse, summoning a formidable dragon-shaped golem.

A fierce battle ensues as the golem, driven by anger and desire, targets the gem. In a display of determination, Ian creates a new staff from a splinter lodged in his hand, continuing to fight, showcasing growth and resilience.

As the battle reaches its climax, Corey and Laurel arrive just in time. With teamwork, they manage to plunge the magical sword into the golem, allowing Ian to complete the resurrection spell that fully restores Wilden's body.

With Wilden returned only for a brief moment, Ian allows Barley to say their farewells while he holds off the golem. After Wilden vanishes, the brothers share an emotional embrace, reaffirming their bond and parental legacy.

In the aftermath, Ian grows more confident and develops his magical skills. With renewed purpose, he surprises Barley with a new van, and they embark on further adventures, ready to rediscover their magical heritage together.