The dawn bell hadn't yet rung when the heavy doors of the rest chamber creaked open. A cloaked dwarf stood there, his cloak embroidered with flame-kissed runes only seen on master blacksmiths.
"You two," he growled, eyes sharp beneath a scorched brow. "The Elders have watched. You're summoned to the Heartforge. Grand Ember Test begins at midday."
He turned without waiting for a reply and walked off, heavy boots echoing.
Leon and Roman exchanged a glance.
It was time.
IRONRIFT CITY – HEARTFORGE HALL
They were led through passageways deeper than any they'd yet seen. The air grew heavier, denser. Mana practically hummed in their lungs. The stone was darker here—obsidian layered with glowing gold veins. Every wall bore etched murals of Dwarven legends: battles, gods of flame, weapons forged in volcano hearts.
Finally, they entered a vast circular chamber.
