Back in her village, Elara confronted the elders. They had always told her she was cursed—dangerous. But now, with the sigil blazing behind her and the phoenix within, she saw through their lies.
The truth? They knew. They had made a pact with darkness long ago to suppress the Eternal Flame so they could rule without fear.
As the flames around her grew uncontrollable, Elara screamed—not in pain, but in defiance. She didn't destroy the village. She burned the lies that had held it hostage.
Among the ashes, only the innocent remained.