The sound of footsteps echoed through the narrow alleyways of the Sky-Market, the air thick with the scent of burning incense and fried circuits. Kael's senses were on high alert as he pulled the dark cloak tighter around his body. The mark on his chest, faint but present, seemed to pulse beneath the fabric, a constant reminder of the burden he carried.
Shao led the way, his steps deliberate as they moved toward the back of the building. The mystic was calm, his eyes scanning the surroundings, though Kael could see the flicker of concern in his movements.
"We need to move quickly," Shao murmured, glancing over his shoulder. "The Syndicate won't stop searching until they have you."
Kael's heart skipped a beat. "How do they know about me?"
"They're always watching," Shao replied cryptically. "But we don't have time to explain. Trust me, we must leave now."
Just as they reached the rear exit, the ground shook beneath them. The sound of heavy boots and mechanical footsteps grew louder. Kael's pulse quickened.
Shao turned abruptly. "They're here."
A blast of energy shattered the door, and Syndicate Enforcers poured into the alley, their crimson helmets gleaming with menace. They were too fast, too organized, Kael knew there would be no escaping them without a fight.
"Get behind me," Shao said, drawing a gleaming staff from his back. The weapon crackled with energy, a perfect fusion of technology and ancient martial arts.
Kael barely had time to react as Shao launched forward, spinning his staff with deadly precision. The Enforcers attempted to counter, but Shao's movements were like lightning, a blur of martial grace. Kael stood frozen, unsure of how to help, but the Ember Core reacted before he could think.
A wave of flame erupted from his body, engulfing the Enforcers in an inferno. The air burned with heat as the Emberfire surged out of him, lashing at their armor like whips of pure destruction. The Enforcers screamed, their bodies incinerating under the onslaught.
Through the haze of fire and smoke, Kael caught sight of a figure watching from the shadows. A woman. Her features were sharp, her eyes glowing with a cold fire. She wore a black cloak adorned with silver runes, and her presence felt… familiar.
Before Kael could say anything, the woman stepped forward.
"Kael Drayven," she said, her voice low and dangerous. "You don't remember me, do you?"
Kael froze, recognition flooding him in a wave of confusion.
"Zira Morn," she continued, a sly smile curling on her lips. "We've met before. And now, it seems, fate has brought us together once again."