The crystal road stretched ahead, brighter than ever, yet heavy with an unseen threat.
Lina walked carefully, feeling the seal pulse through her veins.
She knew now that the ones who broke the oath were not far behind.
"Kyle," she whispered, "how strong are they?"
He looked grim.
"Stronger than any you've faced so far.
They want the winter awake—and will stop at nothing."
The wind shifted, carrying a sound that chilled her more than the frost: laughter.
Not playful, but cruel.
From the trees, a figure appeared.
Tall, armored with black and silver ice, eyes glowing red.
It was different from the first enemy—this one was trained, patient, and deadly.
Lina's pulse quickened.
The winter flared around her, frost forming into shields and blades.
She met the figure's gaze.
"This ends now," she said.
"And no one will claim the winter but me."
The forest held its breath.
And somewhere in the shadows, Lina felt the eyes of her ancestors watching, waiting for her to prove herself worthy.
To be continued…