A Shattered Star

The jungle gave way to arid plains as the group traveled westward, the humid air replaced by dry winds that carried sand and heat. Liora, Elias, and Darian trudged along a weathered trade route, their destination a sprawling desert city called Khandar. According to Amari's scroll, the second shard was hidden beneath its ruins.

"I hope this shard isn't guarded by another stone monster," Elias said, wiping sweat from his brow.

"I wouldn't count on it," Darian replied, scanning the horizon. "If Raven knows where we're headed, there'll be worse than that waiting for us."

Liora, walking ahead, clutched the first shard in her hand. Its faint glow felt reassuring, though the weight of their mission pressed heavily on her. "Let's focus on getting there first. Khandar's ruins aren't just ancient—they're dangerous. The last excavation team that went there never returned."

Elias gave a weak smile. "Great. Another cheerful destination."

As they reached the edge of the desert, a caravan of merchants approached. The leader, a middle-aged man with a long beard and kind eyes, greeted them warmly.

"Traveling to Khandar?" he asked.

Liora nodded. "Yes. Do you know the way?"

The man's expression darkened. "I do, but I'd advise against it. The ruins are cursed. People disappear there, and strange lights are seen at night."

"We don't have a choice," Liora said.

The merchant hesitated, then sighed. "Very well. We'll take you as far as the outskirts. But after that, you're on your own."

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