Chapter 16: The Hunt for the Rune Fragment
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Clues from the Rune
Amidst the silent ruins of a tower, Kano stood staring at his hand. The Rune on his body glowed faintly, emitting a light pointing north. Snow-covered mountains loomed high in the distance.
"This seems to be the direction," Kano said, his voice confident yet tinged with a hint of doubt. "There's something there. I can feel it."
Lyra, who was cleaning her magic staff, glanced toward the mountains. "That area is known to be dangerous. There are many rumors about dragons and ancient guardians living there."
Dorian let out a heavy sigh. "Dragons again? One was trouble enough."
"We don't have a choice," Reina replied, inspecting her bow. "If the Rune fragment is there, we have to go."
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Crossing the Mountains
The journey to the Northern Mountains took several days. They traversed dense forests, raging rivers, and increasingly cold weather. Each step grew heavier, but Kano began noticing something strange: the Rune on his body felt more alive.
"This Rune isn't just pointing the way," Kano said one night as they rested near a campfire. "It feels like it's reacting to something."
Lyra gazed at Kano attentively. "If that's true, it means the Rune fragments not only grant power but are connected to each other. Perhaps the ancient guardian mentioned in the rumors is waiting for us."
Dorian grinned, trying to lighten the mood. "Great, more excitement. I love a challenge—just not another dragon."
They all chuckled softly, though unease lingered in the air.
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The Frozen Valley
After a week of travel, they reached the Frozen Valley. The vast plain was blanketed in thick snow, and the freezing air chilled them to the bone. The howling wind muffled their voices.
Kano stopped in the middle of the valley. The Rune on his body shone brightly. "The fragment is close," he said, scanning the area.
Before they could move further, the ground beneath them began to tremble. From the snow emerged a giant humanoid figure. Its body was made of ice, and its eyes glowed a piercing blue.
"An ancient guardian," Lyra whispered, her voice cautious. "It's protecting the fragment."
The ice guardian stepped forward, creating massive cracks in the frozen ground. With a single motion, it swung its arm, sending a wave of sharp ice toward them.
"Get ready!" Dorian shouted, raising his sword.
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Battle with the Ice Guardian
Dorian attacked first, but his sword merely bounced off the guardian's icy body. Lyra attempted fire magic, but the cold air dampened its effect. Reina fired several arrows, only to anger the guardian further.
"We need another strategy!" Reina yelled, dodging an attack.
Kano felt the Rune on his body grow more active. He realized its power was the key to defeating the guardian.
"Cover me for a moment!" he shouted, focusing his energy on the Rune. A complex pattern of blue light began forming around him.
The ice guardian seemed disturbed by the light. It halted its attack, letting out a low growl.
"It's afraid!" Lyra exclaimed. "Keep going, Kano!"
Kano raised his sword, now glowing with Rune energy. With a single swing, he unleashed a massive wave of energy that struck the guardian directly in the chest. The creature shattered into icy fragments, leaving behind a large blue crystal in its place.
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The First Fragment
The crystal radiated an enchanting light. Kano approached it cautiously. When his hand touched its surface, the Rune on his body flared brightly, absorbing the energy within. He felt newfound strength coursing through him.
"We've only found one," he said, staring at the crystal, which had shrunk to a small shard. "There are still many more to be found."
Lyra nodded, her eyes filled with admiration. "But with each fragment you obtain, you grow stronger. That also means the enemies awaiting us will become more dangerous."
"I'm ready," Kano replied firmly. Yet deep inside, he harbored doubt.
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Shadows in the Distance
Somewhere in the depths of Voidus, a cloaked figure stood before a massive swirling portal. His red eyes glowed intensely.
"The first fragment has been found," he murmured, his voice filled with malice. "Our time grows closer. Kano, Guardian of the Rune, your journey will not end as you hope."
The figure vanished into the darkness, leaving behind the looming threat of an ever-growing shadow.