Ashfall City stirred as news of Kael's feats spread. Elders grew uneasy. Rumors of the Cursed Core bearer resurfaced.
Kael began mentoring orphans in the slums, teaching them basic cultivation. Liora helped, keeping her former identity hidden.
But in the shadows, a Hollow Flame emissary arrived, bearing a single message:
"Kael Ardent must burn."