The mountain stood silent.
Only the wind moved.
It swept gently across the ancient cliffs, carrying with it the scent of pine, stone, and freedom.
The young warrior remained where he stood.
His moon-silver grey eyes rested upon the endless horizon stretching beyond the forbidden mountains.
Behind him...
Thalor Vaen watched quietly.
For the first time in twenty-two years...
There was nothing left to teach.
Only something left to give.
The old guardian slowly reached beneath his weathered cloak and withdrew a small bundle wrapped in faded Midnight cloth.
He held it carefully, almost reverently.
"I have carried these..."
"...for twenty-two years."
Kaelen turned.
The calm confidence upon his face softened ever so slightly.
Thalor stepped forward and placed the bundle into his h
