Chapter 17: The Path of Echoes

The map's worn parchment felt fragile in Aria's hands, as if the weight of its secrets threatened to crumble it to dust. The seven symbols carved along the winding path shimmered faintly, like embers glowing in the dim light of their campfire.

Kael stirred awake and noticed the scroll. "What is it?"

"A journey," Aria said, tracing a finger along the route. "A path to the Throne of Echoes. Whatever that is."

Kael frowned. "A throne… sounds like trouble."

Aria met his gaze. "It's more than that. The Throne of Echoes is said to be the seat of forgotten power—where the past and future collide."

She folded the map carefully and tucked it inside her cloak. The path ahead was uncertain, but there was no turning back now.

They set off at first light, the chill morning air biting at their skin. Each step deeper into the unknown carried a mounting tension; the forest seemed to hold its breath around them.

After days of travel, they reached the first symbol's site: a circle of ancient stones etched with runes, standing sentinel over a shimmering pool. As Aria approached, the water stirred, revealing fleeting images — echoes of lives long past.

Visions danced before her eyes: battles, betrayals, moments of triumph and despair. One figure stood out — a woman crowned with feathers, her eyes burning with sorrow and hope. The Raven Queen.

A sudden whisper filled the air, calling Aria's name. She staggered but remained firm.

Kael helped steady her. "This place is testing you."

Aria nodded. "It's a beginning. We have six more to go."

Night fell, and the forest seemed alive with unseen eyes. Aria's grip tightened on the obsidian dagger, now cold against her palm.

"We're not alone," Kael whispered.

From the shadows, a pair of glowing eyes watched them, then vanished into the darkness.

The journey to the Throne of Echoes had truly begun.