Dawn broke over the eastern isle, casting a pale light on the twisted trees and scorched earth that marked the boundary of the corruption. Lior and Elyra stood at the edge of the darkened forest, where the air was thick with decay and an unnatural silence swallowed even the birdsong.
"The corruption is spreading faster than we thought," Elyra said grimly, her hand tightening on her sword. "If it reaches the heart of the isle, the fragments there will be lost forever."
Lior's chest tightened. The Celestial Code pulsed faintly beneath his skin, a quiet reminder of the power—and responsibility—he bore. He reached out mentally, trying to summon the wind, the small ability he had barely learned to control. A weak breeze stirred, but nothing more.
Suddenly, a low growl echoed from the shadows. From the twisted underbrush emerged a creature twisted by corruption—a massive wolf with eyes burning like embers, its fur matted and shadowed.
Elyra stepped forward, sword drawn, but Lior raised a hand. "Wait!" His voice was steadier than he felt. "I need to try something."
The creature lunged, and instinct took over. Lior focused, calling the wind again, this time with more will behind it. The breeze rose, swirling fiercely, forming a barrier between him and the beast.
The wolf snarled, snapping at the invisible shield. Lior felt the strain immediately—his vision blurred, and his body trembled. The Code was demanding more than he had given before.
With a final gust, the wind pushed the creature back, sending it crashing into the trees. It fled, wounded but alive.
Breathing heavily, Lior lowered his hand. "This power… it's fragile. But it's a start."
Elyra nodded. "You've taken your first step. But the corruption won't wait."