Chapter 8 – Beneath the Veil – Descent Through Memory
The path beneath the emberforge opened like a wound. Once, it had been sealed by ancient glyphs and ritual stone. But now, with the forge breached and resealed in understanding rather than fear, the stone doorway had softened, its runes glowing faintly. Lyra stood before it, Ira beside her, the ember in his chest humming with anticipation. Maerin waited behind them, arms crossed, flame dancing just beneath her skin. Four Embermarked had volunteered to descend. Only two still looked eager. The others wore the thousand-yard stare of those who'd glimpsed too much already. No one spoke as they stepped inside. The tunnel sloped downward, spiraling slowly into the earth. Emberstone lined the walls, glowing a dull gold that pulsed in rhythm with their footfalls. Lyra could feel the change in
- Writer
