The day after, the council divides and disperses to search within the vicinity for the stones. They ventured into woods, mountains, and concealed caves, step by step edging closer to the truth the shadows had kept from the world.
It was Lily, Clara, and Marcus who set off first in the direction of the ancient cave said to contain one of the stones. In the heart of the forest stood the cave, a dark maw that called out to them.
As they entered the cave, the air seemed to cool down, and the faint sound of dripping water echoed in the background. The walls shimmered like crystalline formations, reflecting the glow of the lanterns in every color of a kaleidoscope.
"This is beautiful," Clara whispered to them with wide eyes.
"It is also dangerous," Lily said with senses heightened. "Stay close and keep guard up.".
It is at this level, moving forward into a hall lined with the finest carvings: how the Celestial Stones came into being and how they were truly the work of the most sanctified thing, from whence darkness and light would well in perfect balance for this world to survive.
"There!" declared Marcus, pointing at a pedestal at the center of the room. "The stone!"
There lay, on the pedestal, a shining gem, softly glowing with a warm light. Its energy pulsed forth, a vibrant force that seemed to resonate deeply within them.
Lily approached it slowly, drawing closer to the stone because she felt an inexplicable, deep connection to it.
"This is it," Lily whispered. "But we must take it carefully. Shadows will sense its energy and come for it.".
As she reached out to take the stone, the earth shook and a low growl echoed through the room. Shadows slid along the walls, coalescing into a menacing figure blocking their way out.