Previously in Echoes of the Immortal Flame…
As Aryan delves deeper into the ancient mystery beneath Crimson Willow Sect, a silent watcher stirs in the darkness—one who remembers him from a life that should no longer exist. The shadows are no longer still… and even the flame begins to whisper.
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The moon hung high above the Crimson Willow Sect, veiled in pale mist. Beneath its silver light, the world was hushed—but not silent.
Aryan stood before the sealed gate of the inner sect library, fingers grazing the cold metal. The formation etched into the gate shimmered faintly, resisting his presence. But it wasn't the gate that held his focus.
It was the feeling. That same breath of shadow he'd sensed in the valley—stronger now. Closer. Watching.
He turned, eyes narrowing. Empty halls. Still air. But the flame within his core stirred restlessly.
> You're being hunted, it whispered.
Or warned.
He stepped back from the gate, letting the silence speak. The black flame from the cavern still echoed in his thoughts. It hadn't been an illusion. It had known his name.
And now, something—no, someone—was moving behind the veil.
"Found you."
A voice. Soft. Female. Cold as ice.
Aryan spun.
A girl stood in the corridor's shadow, robes like moonlight, hair drifting as though caught in a wind no one else could feel. Her eyes glowed faintly violet… not human.
"Who are you?" he asked, voice low.
She tilted her head, as if amused. "You're not the only one who returned from death, Sovereign Sun."
His breath stilled.
How did she know?
But before he could speak, she vanished—no step, no sound, just a breath of silver mist curling into emptiness.
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Far above, hidden on a mountain peak that touched the clouds, a figure cloaked in ragged black stood before a burning altar. Flames curled around his hands, but they were not warm—they hissed with an unnatural cold.
In the smoke, Aryan's face flickered.
"Soon," the figure rasped. "The flame will burn again. And I will be waiting."
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Author's Note:
The web of fate is tightening, and Aryan is no longer alone in the shadows. Who is the girl with violet eyes? And what ancient force awakens in the mountains? If you're enjoying the mystery, power, and slow-burn vengeance, don't forget to leave a comment and add this to your library! Next chapter's going to get even darker…