The climb lasted until the sky of the Dawn Star changed from gold to deep amber.
No sun moved overhead.
Instead, the light responded to the travelers' determination.
Each step made the mountain glow a little brighter.
Each hesitation dimmed it again.
Luma glanced behind her.
Far below, the valleys shimmered like rivers of liquid sunrise.
Ahead stood the Gate of the First Promise.
Its crystal pillars were fractured, yet they had not fallen.
Something unseen was still holding them together.
---
When the group finally reached the summit, they found no guardian.
Only two empty stone chairs facing the horizon.
Between them rested a small wooden table.
On the table sat a single clay cup.
Cracked with age.
Half-filled with clear water.
Captain Elian looked around cautiously.
"Th
