Chapter 96: Rekindled Embers
The Sanctum’s infirmary was a quiet sanctuary, its stone walls etched with glowing healing runes that pulsed softly in the dim light, casting a warm glow over the rows of cots.
The air carried the sharp scent of antiseptic herbs, mixed with the faint metallic tang of soulstream energy, a reminder of the magic that held the Tide’s Crest together after their brutal trials in the Shattered Peaks.
Kelvin lay on a narrow cot with his chest tightly bandaged, the ache in his broken ribs were dulled by the healers’ runes but still a constant throb.
His staff rested against the wall with its fire runes flickering faintly, which were synchronized with his heartbeat.
The flame-carved pendant around his neck felt lighter now, a symbol of their victories, Shadowfen, Crags, Wastes, Hollow, the Peaks’ rift, and the rogue tamer’s defeat.
The cost lingered in his mind which was heavy as the cloaked figure’s challenge and the rogue tamer’s words: "The Veil claims this valley."
The Veil’s whispers, though faded but it clung to him, sowing doubts that flickered like shadows in the corners of his thoughts.
Xerion, the End-Tyrant, rested in the beast chamber nearby with his massive serpentine form that coiled tightly, his crimson and gold scales shimmered faintly under the rune-lit lanterns.
The ancient beast, a Level 8 Legendary whose legend was dated back to the Great Rift War, exuded a quiet strength despite the scars marring his twenty-foot length.
His amber eyes were deep and ageless, met with Kelvin’s through the chamber’s open door, a low hiss vibrating the air, a reassurance of their bond.
Their 82% synchronizing ratio was a blazing lifeline, Xerion’s warmth a steady anchor against the fear that still clawed at Kelvin’s heart.