As dawn broke over the Ember Citadel, Victor was already awake, his mind racing. The Keeper's Stone rested in his palm, its faint orange glow pulsating like a heartbeat. He turned it over, studying the intricate carvings etched into its surface. It was warm to the touch, almost alive.
The weight of his new quest settled heavily on him. Travel to the Emberheart Grove, plant the seeds, and protect them. A task that sounded deceptively simple but carried implications far beyond what Victor could fully grasp.
Lyra, noticing his unusually quiet demeanor, approached him as he sat on a low stone wall overlooking the volcanic landscape.
"You've been up all night," she said, her voice soft but concerned. "What's on your mind?"
Victor glanced at her, debating how much to reveal. Lyra had been a steadfast companion, but this felt different. It wasn't just about cooking or exploring exotic ingredients; it was about a responsibility he hadn't asked for.
