The shrine was beneath the meeting hall — a circular stone chamber, damp and cold. In the center stood an archway of ancient rock, covered in faded runes.
Echo's Error-Sight lit it up like a neon grid. Energy lines were broken, fractured. One key node was dark — the place for the keystone.
"It's an Inter-World Shrine," Echo said. "But it's missing its heart."
Mira stood beside him. "The gem you spoke of…"
"The one from the shadow-panther. I think it's a keystone."
Leyla, leaning on a crutch, frowned. "But we left the corpse. Scavengers or traders would have taken it."
Echo concentrated. His Error-Sight replayed the moment — the panther's body, the gem glowing faintly on its brow. Then, a glimpse of lizard-kin tracks leading away.
"It was taken," he concluded. "To Stone Maw. To sell."
Mira's expression tightened. "The outpost is dangerous. Especially now, with the wolf-kin hunting you."
"I have to go," Echo said. "This shrine could be a way home. Or at least a way to other worlds — maybe one closer to mine."
Elder Gareth placed a hand on his shoulder. "Then take Mira. She knows the herb trade there. She can blend in. And take Leyla if she is strong enough."
Leyla stood straight. "I'm strong enough."
Mira packed herbs for trade and disguise. Leyla sharpened her claws.
As they prepared to leave at dawn, Echo felt the weight of the journey ahead.
But he also felt the bonds — Leyla's fierce loyalty, Mira's calm support.
They were more than allies now.
They were his anchors in this savage, beautiful world.