Part One — The Black Flame
The black flame could be seen from hundreds of miles away.
It rose from the heart of the Moonlight Kingdom, twisting through the silver sky like a wound that refused to close.
In the Valley of Echoes, every golden leaf turned toward it.
Then one fell.
Another followed.
Within seconds, golden leaves were raining from the ancient tree.
Seraph looked up.
For the first time, Lara saw fear in the Warden's eyes.
"The Heart Tree."
Her blood turned cold.
"The Sanctuary."
Richard was already moving.
"Guardians! We leave now."
"We'll never reach it in time," Clarissa said.
The earth answered her.
Ancient standing stones surrounding the valley ignited with silver runes.
Cassian stared.
"The Guardian Paths."
Seraph nodded.
"The First Wardens created roads
