The platform beneath her feet trembled again. This time, it was not a Trial, but a crossing, a path to the outside world of the Crossroads.
Aria’s boots struck the cracked stone with purpose. The embers beneath her skin pulsed softly, a quiet reminder of the fire’s hunger and her own newfound independence. Kael trailed silently behind, his face unreadable. Thane followed, eyes flicking to every shadow.
Ahead, platforms of light formed into a great arena of sorts, not for combat, but for observation.
Hundreds of figures, Armored Judges, crimson cloaked manipulators, and unaligned bearers stood in silent judgment. Their eyes flicked to her the moment she stepped onto the central platform.
A murmur spread, almost imperceptible, yet thick with tension.
“Unclaimed Ember Bearer,” a deep voi
