*Inside the Temple, After the First Trial*
They stood where the illusions had left them. The stone altar still glowed faintly.
Crystal leaned into Ryder, her body visibly shaken from the vision’s hold. His arm held her, and though he said nothing, his golden eyes dared anyone to even look at her too long.
Darius’s jaw clenched, his wolf bristling beneath his skin. Crystal noticed Evren seemed tense than the rest, and the way his gaze flicked toward her.
Before she could ask questions, the altar shifted from its place.
The stone floor beneath it, cracked open into four separate paths, each archway framed with glowing runes that thrummed in the form of flames.
A voice filled the chamber.
“Those who entered together must divide. Bonds will be tested. The paths will judge not what you
