The old man—Thane, once Kael's advisor—revealed more than memories. He had protected relics, hidden scrolls, truths sealed away.
Kael read of the Heartflame, a source that once powered their order. But it was fractured, sealed beneath the Tears of Ralynn, a mountain drowned in storms.
"Reignite it," Thane said, "and the Flamebound rise again."
Eira placed a hand on Kael's shoulder. "Then we climb."
Outside, the winds howled, as if the world already feared what would rise.
Kael gripped Ashrender and spoke only one word: "Onward."