Adolfa's POV
The Guardian of the Raven World raised her hand. Three black orbs floated between us. They pulsed like beating hearts.
"These are the Trials of Shadow," she said. "Each one will test you. Not just your strength-but your mind, your past, and your future."
I stared at the orbs. My fingers twitched. I didn't feel ready-but I had no choice.
"Begin," she whispered. "Touch the first one."
I reached out. My fingers grazed the orb.
BOOM.
Darkness swallowed me whole.
I was no longer in the graveyard.
I stood in a burning village. Screams filled the air. Smoke choked my lungs. I spun around, trying to understand.
Then I saw them.
My parents.
They were running-toward me.
"Adolfa!" my mother cried, her arms outstretched.
But I couldn't move. My
