The valley stretched wide beneath the fading light, a hidden cradle of stone and green. Tall cliffs rose on either side, their jagged faces etched with ancient runes now half-consumed by moss. A narrow stream cut through the heart of the land, its waters glimmering like silver threads. To the rebels, it was more than a refuge—it was a forgotten sanctuary, a place whispered about in half-remembered songs.
Kael staggered as he entered, leaning heavily on Joran’s arm. His body screamed with every step, bruises blooming across his skin, burns still raw where lightning had kissed him. Yet the valley’s air felt lighter, as though the storm within him had space to breathe.
“This place…” Liora’s voice softened in awe. She brushed her fingers along the glowing moss clinging to the rocks. “It feel
