Kai emerged from the crucible, breath ragged. The mark on his palm pulsed in sync with his heartbeat. Elder Jian stood at the edge of the platform, silent as a statue, watching.
"So... you saw them," the elder said finally.
Kai didn't answer immediately. "Who were they?"
Jian's gaze darkened. "The Flame-Bound—guardians of the First Sect. Bearers of truth the world chose to forget."
Kai looked down at the mark. "Why show me now?"
"Because the truth is unraveling, Kai. And you are now part of it."
The elder led him to a sealed stone wall. With a flick of his sleeve, ancient runes flared to life. Kai raised his marked hand, and the seal shuddered.
The stone groaned open.
Inside was a chamber filled with scrolls, weapons, and relics—each humming with forgotten power.
But at its center was a black sarcophagus. It radiated oppressive energy. Not malevolent... but watchful.
Elder Jian's voice dropped to a whisper. "The Founder lies here... and he's not at rest. What you saw in the flame is only the beginning. The sect's legacy isn't what we believed it to be."
Kai's breath hitched. "Then what is it?"
The elder turned to him, eyes grave.
"A lie wrapped in fire."