Chapter 57: The Convergence of Shadows

Ariadne stood in the great hall of her palace, surrounded by advisors and allies. The weight of their victory over the Veil's Keeper was barely a few days old, but that triumph found itself tempered by the flapping uncertainty that hung over their future. The crystal used to defeat the dark forces now rested upon a pedestal in the middle of the floor, its faint glow a constant reminder to all of their hard-won fight.

"While our victory was grand," Ariadne spoke, turning to address the assembly, "we cannot let our guard down. Though Veil's Keeper was a powerful foe, her defeat does not represent the death of danger that stalks us."

Thalia stood beside Ariadne and nodded in agreement with her. "The crystal proved its worth, but we must learn about its nature and its capabilities. Perhaps there are residual effects or other dangers we've yet to find."

Seraphina's eyes, like those of a hawk, locked onto the crystal as she spoke up, "While Veil's Keeper's dark magic might be neutralized, f