Search for a Portal? or an enemy

The dim glow of flickering lanterns bathed the living room of the monastery in a warm, golden hue. Aelorin and Klaine sat cross-legged on the worn wooden floor, their faces set in a mixture of apprehension and determination as they faced ShiVak. The older adventurer towered over them, his sharp gaze carrying an authority that demanded attention.

"You both know what it means to pass my exam?" ShiVak's voice cut through the silence like a blade, calm yet commanding.

Aelorin and Klaine exchanged glances before nodding softly.

Klaine broke the silence, her voice steady but tinged with defiance. "We can choose between training more with you or going back home."

The gravity of the choice was evident. For Aelorin, there was no real decision to make. Going home meant abandoning everything he had worked for. His resolve was clear as he straightened his posture and met ShiVak's gaze.

"I would like to stay," Aelorin declared.