Ashyra moved silently through the narrow stone corridors beneath the Elder Council keep. Torches cast long shadows, flickering against runes etched into the walls—wards, old and powerful, designed to keep things out. Or in.
Stephan and Kael walked behind her, their steps muffled but heavy with tension. The Seer Elain’s vision had triggered a lockdown, and now every Elder was on edge. If Malrick had truly infiltrated the Council, their entire alliance could unravel before it began.
Ashyra halted at the end of the passage, her hand hovering over the ancient iron door. “This is it,” she said. “The Chamber of Records. If Malrick was ever here, there’ll be a trace.”
Kael leaned closer. “Do you really think he’s bold enough to walk these halls?”
Stephan’s voice was low. “He’s not just bold.
