Three days later, black clouds gathered. The Celestial Tribunal had sensed a forbidden spark. In golden armor, Judge Vaelor descended, demanding the bearer of the Cursed Core.
Kael stood before him, weak but defiant.
Vaelor raised a hand. "You are a threat to the balance."
"I am a threat to your lies," Kael spat.
Lightning fell. The village burned. Kael's father gave his life to protect him. As the Tribunal withdrew, Kael knelt in the ashes, his eyes hollow. Vengeance lit the path ahead.