The storm outside had settled into an eerie calm, but inside the cavern, the air buzzed with unseen tension.
Artemis stood before the Heartwell, the glowing pool still shimmering with ghostly faces. She reached out, fingertips hovering just above the liquid light.
Suddenly, the echoes intensified—voices whispering her name, calling from beyond time.
"Who are you?" she asked, voice steady despite the growing unease.
A figure emerged from the light—a woman clad in ancient armor, eyes heavy with sorrow and determination.
"I am Kaelen," the apparition said softly. "I was like you—chosen to bind the fracture."
Kaelen's story unfolded in fragments: a warrior who sought to close the portals, only to be betrayed by those she trusted. Her sacrifice was legendary, yet incomplete.
"You carry my burden now," Kaelen said. "But beware—there are those who thrive in chaos. The Hunters hunt us because they fear what we could become."
Artemis absorbed every word, feeling the weight of history settle in her bones.
"How do I avoid your fate?" she asked.
Kaelen smiled sadly. "Trust your heart, but trust your allies more. Alone, the fire will burn out."
As the vision faded, Artemis looked to Lyra, who nodded with quiet resolve.
"We stand together," Lyra said. "Or we fall divided."
Outside the cavern, the first light of dawn broke through the clouds. Artemis felt the Beacon's pulse steady—stronger than ever.
With renewed purpose, she stepped forward, ready to face the coming storm—and the choices that would shape the fate of all worlds.