The mist thinned, revealing a clearing with a circle of standing stones—each etched with symbols that glowed faintly blue.
At the center stood a girl.
Barefoot. White hair. Eyes silver like moonlight.
She turned as he entered. "You brought the pendant," she said.
Kael blinked. "Do I know you?"
"No. But I know you."
She stepped forward, solemn.
"I'm Elara. The Realm chose you. That means you're already dying."