The air inside Firehowl Fortress carried a strange heat—not just in temperature, but in memories as well. It was as if every wall was a volcano of some old moment. Riya’s steps were slow, yet carried a different weight. All the moments so far—the beast fight, her Didi’s spirit, and her confrontation with herself—were all embedded in her stride.
Aarya placed his hand on her shoulder. "Are you okay?"
Riya gave a faint smile, "For the first time… it feels like I am truly okay."
In front of them, a gate resembling an old training hall was opening. Lava-sealed engravings adorned its top: "Only those who’ve burned and survived… may awaken."
Rudrak said slowly, "This place… is no ordinary place. If I’m right, there’s more hidden here."
Inside was a wide circular chamber with a molten pedesta
