Even wrapped in triple layers of sealing cloth, the fragment pulsed with cold, unnatural energy. Ethan held it with both hands as they ascended the ridge behind the collapsed abyssal chamber, frost forming on the edges of his sleeves despite the warm night.
The Blue Moon Sect elders formed a protective formation around Ethan and Elena. Lady Seraphina, floating calmly beside them, studied the trembling object with narrowed eyes. That is not of our world.
The fragment had been uncovered accidentally when Ethan touched a broken rune seal deep beneath the tomb. It was like a sliver of obsidian, etched with abyssal runes and flickering red veins. The moment he laid a finger on it, whispers had begun to stir in the winds half-syllables in languages he couldn't understand.
Elena looked up from where she stood beside him, her aura now crackling faintly with frost and lightning. This isn't just residue from the Abyss. It's ancient. It feels like something left here for a purpose.
Elder Selene stepped forward, extending a hand but stopping just shy of touching the wrapped fragment.
This is a piece of a Shadowroot Weapon an abyssal creation from the First Celestial Rebellion.
Most were sealed or destroyed long ago. None should exist now
Lady Seraphina's silver gaze grew darker,
Then someone has either found a hidden vault or trying to rebuild the arsenal. If this piece was buried here, under a Moon Clan tomb, someone tried to keep it hidden or protected.
Ethan nodded slowly,
We need to destroy it or find someone who can.
There is only one sect known to have mastered abyssal cleansing rituals,
Said Lysithea, her voice quiet.
The Voidheart Sect. But they were wiped out a century ago weren't they?
Seraphina responded,
Legends say a surviving heir took refuge near the Ironleaf Mountains. If any remnants of their order remain, they would be there guarded, forgotten, and perhaps still watching the abyss.
Elena looked to Ethan and said,
If this Shadowroot fragment is a signal beacon more could awaken. We have to get it away from here.
Seraphina drew out a moon-forged talisman, etched in runes older than most sects,
This will suppress it for a time. But do not let it break free. And beware fragments like this attract what remembers them.
Ethan said deeply,
You've done more than offer an alliance. You've entrusted us with a piece of your legacy. I won't let it fall into darkness.
Before their departure, Seraphina spoke privately to Ethan,
Your Qi it doesn't only respond to sword and flame. There's something older. A slumbering force beneath your foundation. I hope you discover it before it awakens on its own.
Ethan and Elena mounted spirit eagles provided by the sect. Their destination
the treacherous Ironleaf Ranges where mist and silence reigned, and even maps twisted between seasons.
As they soared above dark forests and ancient peaks, Ethan stared down at the valleys. The sealed fragment in his satchel vibrated softly, its presence undeniable. He could almost hear it breathe, as if remembering war. As if remembering him.
Elena leaned close, whispering,
What if this is connected to your past too?
Ethan didn't respond,
He just stared at the horizon, knowing the answers weren't just ahead in the Voidheart ruins but also behind him, buried deep in a home he'd once fled from in blood and fire.