The Path of Balance

e Road to the S

trudged along the winding path that led ever northward, toward the jagged horizon where the Shattered Mountain loomed. It was a bleak and imposing sight, its sharp peaks pie

daggers sway silently at his hips, like a predator ready to strike. Kael had grown quieter as they traveled further

an old song of protection that Elias's mother used to sing. The soft melody did little to e

his?" Kael asked, b

out steadier than he expected. "The Hollow Creed is g

hing Elias appreciated about him-Kael did

, a chasm yawned open, its depths hidden by swirling mist. Strange whispers rose from the abyss

with moisture. The sun struggled to reach the forest floor through the dense canop

spered. "The tre

brow. "That suppos

a small, grim

rom a leather cord around his neck. Even now, it pulsed faintly, resonating with the land's ancient energy. It was more th

s murmured a quiet ward around their camp while Elias tended to their gear. They ate in silence, each lo

eed." Her voice was calm, but there was an edge to it. "They're after more than

e saying they're not just b

mething," she replied.

to the flames.

ned. "Then we bet

Firs

idday, they reached the foothills. The path narrowed, winding upward through jagged rocks

mirage, but colder. Kael drew his blades in silence. Lys mutt

ere no

sted armor, their eyes glowing faintly blue. Hollowed Men.

waiting," Ka

the Heartstone's energy course through him as the bl

ses. Lys channeled blinding arcs of light through her staff, burning away the taint that animated the Hollowed Men. Elias fou

es, breathing hard. The Hollowed Men dissolved int

ean. "If they're here, o

Elias's shoulder. "

f the fallen. Etched into the rusted breastplate was

e," Elias said quietly.

"Then let's make sure

f the Shatt

nd lightning forked overhead, illuminating a massive stone archway carved into the rock. Strange gl

it," Lys

is shoulder. "You sure

y? Maybe not. But he was willi

ward, raising

ntain a