{"Power born of moon's blessing demands more than strength, it demands surrender."}
The heavy doors of the council hall loomed before us, carved with ancient runes glowing faintly in the dim light. Spark's grip on my hand tightened as we pushed them open, stepping into the vast chamber.
At the far end of the hall stood Ma, her silver hair flowing like moonlight, eyes sharp and steady. Beside her, Elder Crystal's gaze was colder but no less serious, her stance commanding respect.
They motioned us forward without a word. "We are glad you came so swiftly. Rita and Flora already briefed us about what happened in the Sagstone mountain." Ma began, her voice calm but edged with urgency. "The situation with Ashanai is evolving faster than we predicted."
