The next morning, Liora led Kael through secret passages beneath Aeris, winding through clouds thick as smoke. She took him to a hidden enclave known only to a few: the Shadow Conclave, a group of Celestials who defied the laws of the upper city, seeking freedom and the power to change destiny itself.
The Conclave's leader, a tall figure cloaked in silver mist, regarded them silently. "Liora," he said, his voice both warm and dangerous. "You've broken rules you cannot undo. And you've brought a mortal here—a mortal marked by the stars."
Kael stiffened. "I don't know what you mean."
The figure turned fully, revealing a face half-hidden by a mask of shimmering light. "The Starbond prophecy," he said simply. "He is the mortal, and you… you are the fallen star."
Liora's stomach dropped. "How do you know that?"
He stepped closer. "We know many things, child. And now that the Archons are aware, neither of you are safe. If we do not act, Kael will die, and you… you will be cast out entirely."
Kael's eyes narrowed. "And what do you want from us?"
The leader's gaze softened, almost sorrowful. "We offer an alliance. Help us break the chains that bind the Celestials and mortals alike. In return, we may have a chance to save you both."
Liora hesitated. Her instincts screamed caution, yet Kael's hand found hers again, grounding her. "We don't have a choice," he said quietly. "The city won't forgive our presence."
The Conclave nodded. "Then prepare yourselves. The path ahead is dangerous, and you will be tested. Not just your strength, but your hearts. The prophecy demands sacrifice—and it has begun its reckoning tonight."
As they walked deeper into the enclave, the shadows thickened, curling around them like living tendrils. Kael glanced at Liora, his expression a mix of fear and awe. "Do you ever feel… like everything we've known is about to collapse?"
Liora nodded, her wings—long hidden—brushing faintly against her back. "Yes," she said softly. "But sometimes, the only way to survive… is to follow the heart, even when it leads into darkness."
And for the first time, Kael felt a spark of hope. Even in a city built of stars, they could carve their own destiny—together.