The vision faded, and James stood alone once more, enveloped by the swirling flames. But this time, the heat no longer felt oppressive. The fire around him had transformed from something destructive into something that felt strangely familiar, almost like an old friend. The ancient voice of the flame returned, its tone softer now but no less powerful.
"You have seen your fears, Dragonborn," the voice said, echoing through the chamber of fire. "Now, you must face yourself. Who are you, James of Valoran? Are you truly worthy of the Dragonborn name?"
James steadied himself, his mind reeling from the visions of failure and loss. He could still feel the weight of the accusations from his loved ones, Pippy's pain, Cherry's coldness, Sasha and Yori's disappointment. But as the flames shifted around him, he realized that those visions were only shadows of his own doubt. They weren't real. They were manifestations of his deepest insecurities.
