The cold morning wind blew hard at the top of the slope, carrying the scent of damp earth and the flowers growing among the rocks. The group emerged from the winding trail that traversed the mountain—exhausted, covered in dust, and with muscles tense from the running and battles of the past few days.
Kael was the first to reach the top. He paused for a moment, panting, and looked up at the horizon. His eyes narrowed.
Sylphie followed close behind, adjusting her bow on her back and wiping the sweat from her brow. Amelia leaned against a rock, breathing deeply, while Irelia helped the princess climb the last stretch. When they all arrived, they fell silent—for before them loomed the destination of their journey.
Azalith.
