Something remarkable happened after the crack appeared.
Humanity did not panic.
There were riots, yes. Fear, denial, violence in pockets, but also cooperation. Scholars worked beside soul-sensitives. Former cultists dismantled their own temples. People argued, adapted, failed, and tried again.
They did not look to Kael for answers.
They looked to each other.
For the first time since the dead had conquered the living, Kael felt… unnecessary.
The realization was terrifying.
And beautiful.