At dawn, the group continued their journey, their pace quickening as the forest thinned. By midday, they stood at the edge of Yaloran Ridge. The view was breathtaking—a sprawling valley dotted with tents and makeshift homes, surrounded by cliffs and dense woods. Smoke rose from scattered fires, and figures moved about the camp below.
"There," Ronan said, pointing to the largest tent in the center. "That's where we'll find their leader."
"Do you think they'll even listen to us?" Calen asked, eyeing the armed guards patrolling the perimeter.
"They'll listen," Vera said, her voice cold. "The question is whether they'll agree."
The descent into the valley was tense. Two guards intercepted them before they reached the camp's edge—burly men armed with spears and wearing patchwork armor.
"Halt!" one barked. "State your business."
Ronan stepped forward, his voice steady. "We seek an audience with your leader. We have no quarrel with your people."
The guards exchanged wary glances before one nodded. "Follow us. But try anything, and you'll regret it."
The camp was a hive of activity. Men and women sharpened weapons, tended to livestock, and repaired tents. Children darted between the structures, their laughter a stark contrast to the grim expressions of the adults.
Inside the central tent, a woman stood waiting. She was tall and imposing, with sharp features and a cloak of dark fur draped over her shoulders. Her piercing eyes swept over the group as they entered.
"I am Kaelira, leader of Yaloran," she said, her voice commanding. "State your purpose quickly."
Ronan bowed slightly. "We come seeking an alliance. The empire threatens us all, and together we might stand a chance against them."
Kaelira raised an eyebrow. "And why should I trust you? Strangers who come uninvited often bring trouble."
Calen stepped forward, clutching the crystal. "Because we've already faced the empire and survived. They'll come for you next, whether you help us or not. But together, we can resist them."
Kaelira's eyes flicked to the glowing crystal, her expression unreadable. "You carry power, boy. But power alone doesn't win wars."
Vera crossed her arms. "Maybe not, but numbers do. And you have people here who want to fight back. Give us a chance to prove ourselves."
Kaelira studied them for a long moment before nodding. "You'll have one chance. Prove your worth, and perhaps we'll talk."
As they left the tent, Calen's chest felt lighter. It wasn't much, but it was a start.