Chapter 9
Chapter 9
Anya stands on the ledge above Kristiania, reading her grandmother's journal. It reveals the star-stone's purpose and the final sanctuary on the highest peak. Judge Thorne is trapped below. She begins the ascent, drawn by a light that only she can see, carrying the truth forward.
The night air was cold against my face, sharp and clean after the damp of the tunnel. I stood on the ledge, the journal pressed to my chest, and looked out over the valley. The village lights below were small and warm, like scattered embers. I could see Dr. Azdra still standing at her door, her hand raised. I lifted my own in answer, then turned my gaze upward.
The mountain rose above me, its peak lost in the darkness. The three moons cast a pale silver glow, but the summit itself seemed to swallow the light. I had no path, only the star-stone in my hand and the journal in my coat.
I found a sheltered spot against the rock face, where the ledge widened into a shallow alcove. I sat down, my legs trembling from the climb and the escape. The journal was bound in leather, worn soft by years of handling. I opened it to the first page.
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