As the spirits tightened their circle, the temperature around the trio rose dramatically. Cassia could feel the heat prickling her skin, her breaths growing shallow as the oppressive energy bore down on them. Asterion barked sharply, his fur glowing faintly as if preparing for defense. Alaric stepped forward, his posture calm yet commanding.


    “Fire spirits respect strength,” he muttered. "Show no weakness, and they will relent." He turned to Cassia, his gaze steady. "You’re the key here. They sense your connection to Lumora."


    The spirits’ fiery forms crackled as one of them spoke, its voice deep and resonant. "Mortal, you seek the Ember Jewel, yet you carry the stain of the shattered Veil. Prove your worth, or burn in the river’s embrace."


    Cassia swallowed hard. "What do you want me to do?"


    The flames shifted, forming a narrow bridge of fire across the raging river. "Cross, and retrieve the jewel from the heart of the inferno. But beware—only the worthy shall survive."If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    Without hesitation, Cassia stepped forward, ignoring Alaric’s warning hand. The fire bridge sizzled beneath her feet, the heat searing but bearable. Each step required immense focus, the flames testing her resolve by flaring unpredictably. Halfway across, she stumbled, nearly falling into the molten river below.


    "Focus, Cassia!" Alaric called, his voice cutting through the roar of the flames. She steadied herself, her mind reaching for the shard’s power within her. A cool sensation spread through her, and the flames seemed to part slightly, as if recognizing her determination.


    At the end of the bridge, the Ember Jewel floated within a vortex of fire. Cassia reached out, her hand trembling as the heat intensified. Closing her eyes, she whispered, "I’m here to restore balance. Trust me." The flames subsided slightly, allowing her to grasp the jewel. The moment she did, the fire spirits howled in approval before vanishing.


    Cassia returned to the group, the jewel glowing brilliantly in her hands. Alaric’s expression softened as he helped her down from the bridge. "You did well," he said quietly. "Better than I expected."


    Cassia smirked despite her exhaustion. "Is that a compliment?"


    Asterion barked, breaking the tension. "Let’s move. This place is too hot for my liking." The trio set off, the Ember Jewel safely in hand, its warmth a reminder of the trial they had overcome.