VALERIA

"Then come, step closer to this table," he led me to a massive oval-shaped marble table with a gigantic map spread across it.

Some areas were drawn out, while others appeared opaque and concealed.

"Bring me the box!" he ordered, and they brought him a small wooden box.

It looked familiar, and when he opened it and showed me the contents, I recognized the stone I had once touched—pretending it was harmless—only to have it burn my hand.

"This stone is made from the Mother Altar, the very first one, located at the Lunar Gate. It’s a relic of your race. Take it with one hand and extend the other to me," he commanded arrogantly, leaving me no choice but to obey.

My trembling fingers reached for the dark rock that seemed to glow as if it had minerals inside.

I remembered all too well the pain it had caused me last time, but now I only felt its call—like an invisible thread pulling me toward something sacred and incredible.

The cold touch finally met my hand as I lifted it from the v