The early morning mist clung to the forest as Seraphina, Kaelen, Lucien, and a select few trusted knights mounted their horses. The path ahead was steep and uncertain, winding through jagged cliffs and frostbitten trees toward the fabled northern mountains.
Seraphina's heart beat with a mixture of anticipation and unease. The stories spoke of the sage as a recluse—wise but elusive—keeper of secrets older than the kingdom itself. If he could unlock the mysteries of her lineage and the Divine Beast, it might shift the tide of the war.
Kaelen rode beside her, eyes scanning the shadows. "We must be cautious. Evelyne's spies could be anywhere."
Lucien, still recovering but determined, nodded in agreement. "The further north we go, the less control Evelyne has. But the mountains hold their own dangers."
As the party ascended, the air grew thinner and colder. Strange howls echoed from the peaks, and unseen eyes seemed to watch their every move. Seraphina gripped the reins tightly, reminding herself that every step forward was a step toward reclaiming her kingdom—and the truth she deserved.
At night, around the campfire, Kaelen shared legends of the Divine Beast's origins—how it was born from the union of light and shadow, a guardian bound to the royal bloodline. Seraphina felt the weight of that legacy settle on her shoulders, but also a spark of hope.
The journey was treacherous, but the promise of answers fueled their resolve.
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