The grand hall of the Water Kingdom, Aquira, was heavy with tension. Blue torches flickered along the marble walls, casting restless shadows over the gathered rulers.
Auron Valdris, the Keeper of Balance, sat at the head of the round table. Though he appeared no older than thirty, with silver hair that shimmered like moonlight and eyes reflecting the world itself, his soul was ancient.
"I have summoned you," Auron began, his voice calm yet firm, "because the balance is shifting. A new Keeper has been born."
A heavy silence followed.
Queen Lysara of Fire, draped in crimson and gold, narrowed her amber eyes. "So soon? It has only been two centuries since you took your place."
Auron nodded. "Yes. And as you know, I must step aside."
King Vaelin of Wind, lean and sharp-eyed, leaned forward. "Where is the child?"
Auron hesitated. "That... is the problem. I do not know."
A murmur spread through the room.
King Darion of Earth clenched his fists. "If the new Keeper is missing, then the balance is already in danger. We must find them before it's too late."
A cold voice cut through the air. "The Shadow Kingdom will not wait."
All eyes turned to Queen Seraphina of Shadow, her silver eyes glowing like a predator's in the dim light. "King Zephyrus has grown restless. Without a Keeper, nothing stops him from seizing power."
King Vaelin's expression darkened. "You expect us to believe you do not conspire with him?"
Seraphina's gaze was sharp. "Do not mistake me for a fool, Vaelin. If Zephyrus rises, he will consume all."
Auron raised a hand, silencing further argument. "We do not have time for accusations. We must find the new Keeper before Zephyrus does. If he reaches them first..."
Queen Lysara finished his thought. "The world will burn."