As the group journeys west to seek the Shard of Shadow, they learn that not all Shardkeepers are loyal to Solunara's cause. A powerful enemy emerges: Malrik Deyne, a charismatic warlord who has allied with Zareth. Malrik offers Kael a choice—surrender the shards and live, or continue the quest and face unimaginable loss.
Kael refuses, and the group narrowly escapes after a devastating battle that leaves them scarred, physically and emotionally. Kael begins to question whether the shards are a blessing or a curse.