The molten glow of the lava cast flickering shadows across Kael's face as he stood at the edge of the pit. Heat waves distorted the air, making the stone pathway ahead look like a mirage. The trial was clear—he had to cross. But something told him it wouldn't be that simple.
Eldric's voice was calm but firm. "This trial is not just about endurance. The flames react to power—your power. The mark within you will either shield you or betray you, depending on your control."
Kael swallowed hard. He had faced shadows, his own fears, and his past. But fire… Fire was an element that could not be reasoned with.
Vasra stood with her arms crossed, watching intently. "Overthinking will get you burned. Just move."
Kael exhaled sharply and stepped onto the first stone. Heat flared up around him, but his body remained unharmed. The mark on his hand pulsed faintly, absorbing the energy in a way that sent tingles through his skin.
He took another step. Then another.
The lava churned below, and suddenly, flames erupted from the sides of the pathway. Kael barely dodged in time, stumbling forward as the fire dissipated just as quickly as it had appeared.
"You must walk with purpose," Eldric called. "Hesitation invites the flames."
Kael steadied himself. This wasn't just about reacting—it was about moving forward with absolute focus. He straightened, took a deep breath, and strode forward. The heat flared around him, but he didn't slow. The mark on his hand glowed brighter, and with each step, he felt the energy shifting, syncing with his movements.
Halfway across, the air around him trembled. Something was changing.
Then the ground beneath his feet cracked.
A surge of heat exploded outward, and a creature of pure fire emerged from the molten depths. It had no eyes, no solid form—just writhing flame, shaped like a beast of living destruction.
Kael braced himself. Another test. Another fight.
The trial was far from over.