The night was silent, but the energy in the air was wild. Kimberly and Alpha Theo stood in the middle of the sacred circle, their hands joined together.
Around them, Mohandria, Zach, and the seven cloaked men moved in rhythm, chanting words that echoed through the dark skies.
Theo's eyes were closed, his breathing heavy. The ritual wasn't just a test of strength, it was a bond between life and spirit.
Kimberly could feel the power coursing through her veins, her heartbeat matching the rhythm of the chants.
Mohandria stepped closer, her voice calm but firm. "Do not let go, no matter what happens," she said softly. "This fortification is the shield that will keep both of you alive when the storm begins."
Zach's voice grew deeper as he poured a bowl of glowing liquid into the circle. "This is the blood of the old ones. It binds your souls to the light and strengthens your hearts against corruption."
