Days in Elarion passed like a blur, yet Alina felt like a stranger in this world. Kael was a taciturn companion, speaking only when necessary, but his eyes held a deep sadness. She often wondered what had driven him to protect her.
One night, as they sought shelter in a small cave, they heard a faint growl. Kael drew his sword, and Alina felt the air around them grow heavier. From the shadows emerged creatures with glowing red eyes. They were minions of the Shadowborn.
Kael fought with a precision that left Alina breathless, but there were too many. Instinctively, she raised the book she had carried with her since arriving in Elarion. The runes on the cover began to glow, and a powerful beam of light pierced the darkness, banishing the creatures and reducing them to dust. Kael looked at her in surprise, but there was also respect in his gaze.