After the events at the Shadow Temple, Van and Lyria spent their time aboard The Silver Hawk recovering and planning their next move. With the crystal orb destroyed, they knew the next fragment would be much harder to find, especially with the Cult of Revival becoming more vigilant of their actions.
While they rested, Kaelitha brought them news. She handed an old map to Van. The map displayed a snowy northern region known as Frostveil Tundra.
"According to ancient records, one of the fragments might be located here," Kaelitha said, pointing to a specific spot on the map. "However, the journey to this place is extremely dangerous. Frostveil is infamous for its deadly snowstorms, not to mention the wild creatures that inhabit the area."
Van stared at the map with determination. "If the fragment is there, I must go."
Lyria, sitting beside him, nodded. "We can't let the Cult of Revival get to it first. If they find the fragment in Frostveil, it will spell disaster for us."
---
Journey to Frostveil
Van and Lyria began their journey to Frostveil Tundra, traveling by a rented horse-drawn carriage from Terra Marvell. Along the way, they passed through small villages that became increasingly sparse as they approached the northern region.
"I've never been this far north," Van said, observing the snow-covered landscape.
"This land is unforgiving, even for seasoned travelers," Lyria replied. "But there's a legend about this place. It's said that an ancient guardian protects something of immense importance deep within Frostveil."
Van tilted his head. "An ancient guardian? Is that something we should be worried about?"
"It's unclear," Lyria answered. "But if the legend is true, we might have to face a trial before we can claim the fragment."
---
The Last Village
Before venturing fully into Frostveil Tundra, they arrived at a small village called Snowhearth. It was known as the last safe haven before entering the harsh, unforgiving tundra.
The villagers eyed Van and Lyria curiously, especially Van, whose presence seemed to exude a strange aura from the fragment he already carried. An elder, wrapped in thick woolen robes, approached them.
"You're not ordinary travelers," the elder said, scrutinizing them. "What brings you to this place?"
"We're searching for something," Lyria replied diplomatically. "We've heard of an ancient artifact hidden in Frostveil. Do you know anything about it?"
The elder sighed deeply. "Many come to Frostveil seeking something, but not all return. There's something waiting out there something older than this village itself. If you must go, heed my advice: trust nothing you see."
His words filled them with caution, but Van wasn't deterred. He thanked the elder and decided to press on.
---
First Night in Frostveil
After leaving Snowhearth, Van and Lyria entered Frostveil Tundra. The thick snow made their journey increasingly difficult. The icy wind bit into their skin, carrying eerie sounds that made them feel as if they were being watched.
Their first night in the tundra tested their endurance. Lyria used her magic to create a heat barrier around their tent, but Van couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong.
"Lyria, do you hear that?" Van asked, staring out into the darkness beyond their tent.
Lyria nodded. "That sound... it's like footsteps. But there are no tracks in the snow."
They decided to stay on guard throughout the night. However, nothing attacked them only the unsettling sound of footsteps continued to echo, as if stalking them from a distance.
---
The Ruins Amid the Tundra
On the second day, they finally discovered signs of ancient ruins buried beneath layers of snow. Massive pillars rose from the white expanse, etched with carvings depicting a great battle between colossal creatures and luminous beings.
"What is this?" Van murmured, inspecting one of the pillars.
Lyria examined the carvings closely. "It's the story of the ancient guardian. This creature is said to protect something incredibly important likely the fragment."
As they approached the ruins, a rumbling sound began to emerge from beneath the ground. Suddenly, the snow in front of them collapsed, and a colossal figure emerged from the depths.
---
The Guardian's Arrival
The guardian was a towering entity made of ice and stone. It's eyes glowed with a bright blue light, and its voice echoed like the roar of a storm.
"Small mortals, what do you seek in this place?" its voice boomed.
"We seek the fragment," Van replied without hesitation. "If you are protecting it, I must take it from you."
The guardian let out a thunderous laugh. "The fragment can only be given to those who are worthy. If you desire it, prove that you can protect this world from destruction."
---
The Guardian's Trial
The guardian tested them by creating illusions that attacked their minds. Van and Lyria were forced to confront shadows of their past, their greatest fears, and the doubts that lingered in their hearts.
Van found himself as a child once more, ostracized by everyone due to his menacing gaze. Voices of ridicule filled his mind, reminding him of the pain he once buried.
But Van gripped his sword tightly. "I'm no longer that weak child. I don't care what you say about me."
With that resolve, he shattered the illusion encasing him. Meanwhile, Lyria faced the guilt of her past decisions, but she, too, overcame her trial with the strength of her heart.
---
Claiming the Fragment
After successfully passing the trial, the guardian slowly knelt before them. In its hands, a radiant crystal emerged, surrounded by an energy identical to the fragment Van carried.
"You have proven yourselves," the guardian said. "This fragment is yours, but remember great responsibility lies ahead."
Van accepted the fragment, feeling its immense power coursing through him. With the third fragment in their possession, they knew their journey was far from over.