Kairen's heartbeat thudded in the sudden stillness of the grove. The air felt heavy, expectant. He stared at Sage Vanamali, the ancient man's words echoing.
"A seal…?" Kairen repeated, the word fragile. He shook his head. "That can't be right. My father… he told me it was my mark. Our lineage. A symbol of the Zephyrwind gift…"
Vanamali's gaze held him, patient, sorrowful. "Lineage, yes, Kairen. But not of power freely given—it is one of power restrained."
The word hit Kairen like a physical blow. He stumbled back. "Restrained…? Contained? What does that even mean? What power?"
The Sage's expression softened. "Words alone cannot convey this truth, Zephyrwind. Your mind would reject it." He sighed, a sound like wind through old stones. "You must see it for yourself."
He turned, motioning toward the Sanctum's heart. The swirling mists parted, revealing the towering crystal, pulsing like the sleeping heart of the mountain.
