Chapter 53: Behind the Veil

The grand hall was teeming with preparation for an upcoming expedition to continue the study of the leylines and the remains of dark magic. Ariadne, Seraphina, Leander, and Thalia were busy coordinating, gathering resources, and sending word as much as they briefed their own parties. When all was said and done, everyone felt as though a great weight of uncertainty hung somewhere in their future.

Ariadne stood at the head of the hall, eyes very intent and very strong. The battle, only a few hours gone, had given a minor reprieve from the threat of dark magic. Her mind turned west again, to the provinces where its energy had taken hold for a moment. The red scars from that encounter remained in her mind like a sign for all that was yet to be done.

Seraphina came into the hall, thoughtful concern on her face. "Your majesty, I've been continuing the analysis of the leylines. There are several anomalous readings that strongly suggest there are hidden nexi. Those could be feeding the residu