The towering figure of fire loomed before Luke, its voice reverberating like the roar of an inferno. "The Trial of Embers has three stages, Seeker. Each will test a facet of your worthiness to inherit the legacy of Ignis. Should you fail, the flames will consume you, and your journey ends here."
Luke felt the weight of the challenge settle over him. The amulet burned hot against his chest, pulsing in rhythm with his racing heartbeat. Master Borris stood at the crater's edge, his face lined with concern, but he did not interfere. This was a path Luke had to walk alone.
"I am ready," Luke said firmly, his voice steady despite the crackling flames surrounding him.
"Then let the trial begin," the fire spirit intoned, raising its blazing hand. The world around Luke shifted, and the first stage began.
Stage One: The Test of Will
