The dawn light barely touched the valley as Aria stood before the ancient stone altar, its surface scarred by time and countless rituals. Around her, the Ember Circle formed a silent ring, their eyes reflecting the flickering flames from the nearby fire pit.
Selyra stepped forward, her gaze steady. “Today, you face the Trial of Flames. It will test your control, your will, and your connection to the fire within.”
Aria’s heart pounded like a drum in her chest. She knew the stakes — failure meant losing herself to the consuming blaze, becoming a danger to everyone she loved.
She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, reaching deep into the core of her being. The fire simmered beneath her skin, eager, wild.
The Circle began to chant, their voices rising and falling in a haunting melody t
