THE HIDDEN CROWN

Chapter 21: Unseen Forces

As the council members dispersed to carry out their orders, Victor remained behind, standing in the dimly lit chamber that had once been his stronghold. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on him, and the lingering sense of loss from Eira’s death was still fresh in his mind. Yet, despite everything, he felt a renewed sense of purpose.

Victor’s thoughts were interrupted by a soft rustling sound, barely audible above the silence of the chamber. He turned sharply, his senses heightened, but he saw nothing. The room was empty, save for the flickering shadows cast by the few remaining torches.

"Who's there?" Victor's voice was calm but commanding, resonating through the chamber.

A moment passed in silence, then a figure slowly materialized from the shadows. It was a woman, tall and graceful, her form shimmering like a mirage before solidifying into flesh. She had an ethereal beauty, with long, flowing hair and eyes that glowed with an otherworldly light. Victor recognized her inst