~Kaida Orion POV~
The Root Fang sect arrived under silent banners at dawn. Tall figures draped in bone‑thread robes slipped into the chamber, their faces hidden beneath moon‑veiled hoods. They moved with ritual precision, forming a line between the chest and us.
I tightened my grip on Akira and Lunara. Lupus braced beside me, chest wound stiff but eyes sharp. Moon Priest chanted protective wards. Biat placed a hand on my shoulder.
The head of the sect knelt before the chest, then spoke, voice resonating:
"Relic heir, show yourself to the blood‑moon vessel, you belong to Root Fang ritual. Your imprint calls me."
I exhale. This was the ultimatum, if Akira answered, the vessel and her name were bound to Root Fang...not Silverline. If she refused, they threatened to extract the relic mark forcibly.
Lupus growled low, Lunara reacted but held close.
Akira stared back at the hooded figure, her mark pulsed bright under her skin.
