The Dark Valley of Sorrow lay ahead, cloaked in shadows that seemed to breathe with every passing breeze. Kael tightened his grip on the silver dragon's necklace, feeling its faint warmth as though it sensed the danger lurking within those dark hills.
Lira walked beside him, her bow slung over her shoulder. "The air here feels… wrong," she whispered, scanning the twisted trees that lined their path.
Kael nodded. "This is where the demon raiders come from. If they've left traces, this is where we'll find them."
The wind carried faint echoes—half wails, half whispers. Every sound made the hair on the back of Kael's neck rise. His grandfather's warnings replied in his mind: "Never underestimate the valley." It feeds fear.
Suddenly, a shadow darted across the rocks ahead. Kael drew his blade instantly. "Show yourself!" He demanded.
From the darkness emerged a cloaked figure with glowing crimson eyes. Its voice was like a cracking stone.
"So, the boy with the dragon's blood dares to come here. How brave… or how foolish."
Lira raised her bow, but Kael placed a hand on her arm. "We're not here to fight you—unless you force our hand," he said, standing firm.
The figure let out a low chuckle. "Your ancestors sealed something in this valley long ago. Break that necklace, and the seal will shatter. Are you ready for what comes after?"
Kael's heart pounded. He remembered the dragon's promise of power—but at what cost?
"I'll decide when the time comes," he replied, his voice steadily.
The figure vanished like smoke, leaving only the cold wind and the distant howl of creatures stirring in the valley.
Lira looked at him worriedly. "Kael… we need to be careful. This is only the beginning."
Kael glanced at the full moon rising behind the jagged peaks.
"I know," he said quietly. "But if we don't face it, no one else will."