The Phoenix Sect worked tirelessly to recover from the attack, but the scars ran deep. Master Valen summoned Aarik to the Hall of Eternal Wisdom, an ancient chamber hidden beneath the sect.
"You've proven yourself worthy, Aarik," Valen said, leading him to a sealed door covered in intricate runes. "It's time you learned the full truth about the Eternal Flame."
Valen placed his hand on the door, and the runes flared to life, unlocking a passage to a hidden chamber. Inside, the air was thick with power. A massive, ancient mural covered the walls, depicting the rise and fall of civilizations tied to the Eternal Flame.
"The Eternal Flame is more than a source of power," Valen explained. "It's the remnant of a primordial being—an entity of pure creation and destruction. Only those deemed worthy can wield it, but its power has corrupted many."
Aarik's eyes widened as he studied the mural. One figure stood out—a warrior marked by the same fiery sigil on his chest.
"That's… me?" Aarik asked.
Valen nodded. "The Flame doesn't choose randomly. You are its guardian in this era. But with great power comes great danger. The Shadow Sect seeks to corrupt the Flame, to turn it into a weapon of annihilation."
Aarik's resolve hardened. "I won't let that happen."
Valen placed a hand on Aarik's shoulder. "You have much to learn. Prepare yourself, for the trials ahead will test your body, mind, and soul."
---