By the way, I didn't add Ryn's trial coz that chapter was really long as it was. But yes, he also got his mark->Author here..
The forest was silent, save for the faint hum of energy still coursing through their bodies. The glow of the marks etched onto their skin dimmed as the temple's presence faded into the earth, leaving only the cool whisper of the night breeze.
Kai tightened his grip on his sword, the power from the trial lingering in his veins. His dragon heir mark throbbed faintly, a reminder of the responsibility it carried. He glanced at the others, their faces a mix of exhaustion and determination.
"We should rest," he said, his voice calm but commanding. "We need to figure out what this power means—and how to control it."
Lyria smirked, twirling her weapon. "Rest? Kai, we just passed a trial that could've killed us. You think anything out there is scarier than that dragon?"
Kaelith rolled her eyes, brushing dirt off her cloak. "I'd argue the lack of food is scarier. Power or not, I'd kill for something edible."
"Priorities," Aelira muttered, though her soft smile showed her amusement.
Ryn stood off to the side, his bow slung over his shoulder, his expression distant. The faint etching of his mark glowed on his hand, a constant reminder of his trial. He finally spoke, his voice quiet but steady. "She's right. The dragon was terrifying, but surviving one trial doesn't mean we're invincible. The next challenge might not give us a second chance."
Isolde's gaze remained fixed on the horizon, her expression unreadable. The trial had left a shadow over her thoughts, though she didn't let it show. She finally turned to the group, her tone measured. "Kai's right. We can't afford to move forward recklessly. Whatever lies ahead won't be easier than what we've just faced."
Seraphina leaned on her lance, nodding. "The trials weren't just about power. They were about balance, unity, and sacrifice. We need to reflect on what we've learned before we face the next challenge."
Kai exhaled, relieved that the group agreed, even if reluctantly. "There's a clearing nearby. We'll set up camp there. Tomorrow, we start planning our next move."
The fire crackled in the clearing, its warmth warding off the night's chill. The group sat in a loose circle, the weight of the trials still heavy on their minds.
Kai poked at the fire with a stick, his thoughts swirling. Finally, he broke the silence. "The dragon said the trials were only the beginning. Whatever we're up against, it's bigger than any of us alone. We have to be ready—for ourselves and for each other."
Lyria leaned back, staring at the stars. "You're starting to sound like a leader, Kai. Just don't let it go to your head."
Kai chuckled softly. "I'll try."
Aelira's voice was quieter, thoughtful. "The marks we bear... they're more than just symbols. They're proof of what we've overcome. But I can't shake the feeling that they're also a warning."
Isolde nodded, her gaze steady. "A warning that power without control is dangerous. The dragon was clear—balance is key. If we lose sight of that, these marks might become a curse instead of a blessing."
Kaelith sighed, pulling her hood up. "All this talk of balance and power is exhausting. Wake me when the philosophy lesson is over."
Ryn, who had been silent, suddenly spoke. His tone was heavier than usual. "Balance isn't just about power, though. In my trial, it was about letting go—of doubt, of hesitation. I realized that my precision, my aim, is meaningless if I don't have clarity. These trials weren't just physical tests. They were... personal."
The group turned to him, his words sinking in. Seraphina was the first to respond. "Clarity. Balance. Sacrifice. It all feels connected somehow. The trials were teaching us something deeper than just strength."
Kai nodded, his expression thoughtful. "We'll need to carry those lessons with us. The dragon's warning was clear: 'Only those with true balance will endure.' Whatever lies ahead, we'll need to face it as a team."
Seraphina's gaze softened as she looked at Kai. "What's our next move, leader?"
Kai hesitated, then met her eyes. "We head to the capital. If anyone knows more about the Trials of the Scales, it'll be the scholars there. They've studied dragon lore for generations. Maybe they can help us understand what we've unlocked—and what's coming next."
The group murmured their agreement, though exhaustion was clear in their eyes.
As the fire burned lower and the stars twinkled above, each of them drifted into their own thoughts. The trials had tested their strength and resolve, but the path ahead promised even greater challenges.
Kai stared into the dying embers, his jaw tightening. The dragon's words echoed in his mind.
"Only those with true balance will endure."
Whatever lay ahead, he vowed to ensure they endured. Together.