---
The chamber now felt vast and hollow. Without the Matron's towering presence, the space seemed less a cathedral and more a hushed crypt of departed glory. But Fenna did not feel fear. The warmth in her wrist, the tiny phoenix mark pulsed gently, assuring her she was not alone.
She gave the lava lake a final nod of farewell. Its surface rippled as if acknowledging her. The path ahead, once menacing with swirling heat drafts, now unfurled like a silent promise.
Fenna began her ascent, one hand steadying the sling at her side. Ash crunched beneath bare feet, the surface cooler than before. She paused at intervals to steady her breath and to check on Emberling, brushing stray embers from the chick's beak. Each time, she whispered a soft reassurance, gentle as an ember kissed silk.
