As they approached the final trial, Aria felt a shift in Kael's demeanor. He had grown distant, his usual encouragement replaced by brooding silence. She pushed the worry aside, focusing on the Trial of Water, where a lake shimmered with unnatural light. To pass, Aria had to retrieve a glowing pearl from the lake's depths.
As she descended into the icy water, visions of doubt clouded her mind. Was she truly strong enough to save Eldoria? When she emerged victorious, clutching the pearl, Kael stood waiting, his sword drawn.
"I'm sorry, Aria," he said, his voice heavy with regret. "Malvaris promised me power and freedom from my family's curse. I had no choice."
Shock and betrayal stabbed through her. "You've been helping him?" she demanded.
Kael nodded, pain in his eyes. "But I see now… I was wrong."
Before she could respond, shadowy figures emerged from the forest, Malvaris's minions. Kael hesitated, then turned on the creatures, fighting them alongside Aria.
His betrayal still fresh, Aria hesitated to trust him again, but his actions spoke volumes. Together, they defeated the minions, though Aria's heart was heavy. The bond between them was fractured, but for now, they needed each other to face what lay ahead.