The Hollow Peaks loomed in the distance, jagged silhouettes against a bleeding sunset sky. Legends said the mountains were cursed — swallowed by shadow when the Moonstone was hidden there centuries ago, after the first Flameborn fell.
Elara stood at the edge of the trail, her cloak fluttering in the wind. Beside her, Kael adjusted the strap across his chest, securing the twin blades Ravynn had gifted him.
"We're really doing this," he said, his voice low.
She nodded. "There's no turning back now."
Behind them, Ravynn handed over a scroll wrapped in protective runes. "This will guide you to the temple hidden in the highest peak. But be warned — only Flameborn blood can open the inner sanctum."
Elena stepped forward, handing Elara a pendant shaped like a crescent moon. "Keep this close. It'll react when you're near the Moonstone."
Kael took Elara's hand. "Whatever we face… we do it together."
They journeyed through the first stretch of forest in silence. Each step toward the mountains seemed to weigh heavier on Elara's soul. The air grew thinner, colder, as if the peaks exhaled centuries of secrets.
By nightfall, they made camp beneath a ridge. Flames danced between them, but the silence held more weight than words. Elara leaned into Kael's shoulder, drawing comfort from the steady beat of his heart.
"What if we're too late?" she whispered.
He turned to her, brushing a curl from her cheek. "Then we fight anyway. Because fate isn't set — you proved that."
A howl echoed in the distance, long and unfamiliar.
Kael stood, scanning the darkness. "We're not alone."
Moments later, silver eyes blinked from the trees. Five figures stepped out — cloaked, hooded, their auras pulsing with old power. One raised their hand.
"We've been waiting, Flameborn," the figure said. "The Keepers of the Stone have returned."
Elara stood tall, her flame flickering at her fingertips. "Then show us the way."
The leader smiled. "First, you must survive the Trial of Flame."