With the Fourth Ring glowing softly at his wrist, Aarav left the Hall of Mirrors feeling lighter yet more determined. The monks escorted the group to a quieter part of Jyotivar—a vast terrace overlooking endless skies, where scrolls and star charts were stored in crystal cases.
Ishira unfurled the ancient star map once more, tracing her finger to the mark that bore the name "Rivan."
"The vault is hidden deep beneath the earth," she said softly. "Protected by layers of mantra and ancient wards. If Rivan is truly imprisoned there, it will not be easy to find—or to free him."
Vayara examined the runes inscribed on the map. "These wards respond only to a rare energy signature—one that matches the power of all four Rings combined."
Aarav glanced at his wrist, feeling the steady hum of the four Rings now bonded with his essence.
"Then I'm the key," he said quietly. "We need to prepare carefully. The vault could be a trap—or worse."
Luan stepped forward, eyes gleaming. "The path will be perilous, but I have seen glimpses of its location in the Dream Realm. There are guardians… ancient spirits bound to protect what lies within."
As the sun set, bathing Jyotivar in fiery gold, the team gathered their supplies and prepared for descent.
Aarav looked to the stars emerging above—the same stars his father once charted, guiding him now.
"No matter what awaits below," he vowed, "we will bring Rivan back. And uncover the truth buried in darkness."
The next step of the journey was about to begin—beneath the earth, where secrets waited in shadow.