The dim glow of enchanted torches flickered against the stone walls as Valen and his allies descended into the academy's lowest corridors. Every step brought them closer to the central chamber, where the Black Vow's ritual pulsed with dark energy, each wave resonating through the walls and into their bones.
Valen glanced back at his allies—Aylara, Kael, Seraphine, Lian, and the small group of dedicated students who had joined their cause. Each one wore a look of grim determination, and the faint silver glow of their unity pins cast a soft, unifying light in the dark passageway.
"Remember," Valen said, his voice barely a whisper, "our goal is to disrupt the ritual. Stick to your roles, stay focused, and don't let them overwhelm you. This is our best chance to strike."
