The stranger in the blue cloak took another step, his boots crunching on the dry cavern floor. Elara felt the energy from the crystal still humming in her palm, warm and pulsing.
"My name is Kaelen," the man said, lowering his dagger slightly. "And if you value your life, you will come with me now. The Council's scouts are already halfway up the mountain."
Elara gripped the edge of the altar. "Why should I trust you? You just said you were sent to stop me."
Kaelen's expression softened for a split second, a shadow of regret passing over his eyes. "I was sent by the Council to destroy the crystal—and anyone who dared to touch it. But seeing the prophecy wake for you... it changes things. If they find you here, they won't just take the crystal. They will take your soul."
Suddenly, a distant horn blast echoed through the cavern. The scouts were here. Elara looked at Kaelen, then at the glowing crystal. She didn't know him, but she knew the fear in his voice was real.
"How do we get out?" she asked, her voice steadying.
Kaelen reached out his hand. "Through the secret path. But once we leave this cave, there is no turning back."