The Hollow Path narrowed, winding deeper into shadow. The flames around Kael had dimmed to a faint glow, just enough to light their way. He was exhausted. The fire inside him no longer felt like power—it felt like weight.
Mira led the way now, knife drawn, senses sharp.
"We need shelter," she said. "The Emberroot's protection won't last out here."
"Where are we going?" Kael asked.
"There's an old ruin—Flamewatch Hold. Hidden deep in the Wildwood. My mother took me there once, years ago. It's the last place the Watch would expect you to go."
Kael nodded, though his legs ached and his mind spun. The vision… the voice in the fire… it still echoed in his chest.
"Do you think the Watch will follow us?" he asked.
Mira hesitated. "They won't stop. Not until you're either dead or under their control."
Kael clenched his fist. The flame flickered, responding to his frustration.
"Then I need to learn. Fast."
"You will," she said. "But fire doesn't just obey strength—it listens to purpose."
Kael looked ahead, eyes burning with resolve.
"Then I'll give it one."
Behind them, the trees rustled. A shadow passed across the path—too quiet to be an animal.
They weren't alone anymore.