Astrid's words hung in the air like a challenge.
"What do you mean they have our family?" Kael demanded.
Astrid's eyes pleaded for understanding. "The Shadow Weavers took Mom and Dad. They'll kill them if I don't cooperate."
Kael's face twisted in anguish. "Why didn't you tell me?"
Astrid's voice cracked. "I was trying to protect you, Kael. I didn't want you to get hurt."
Lyra and Ryker arrived, sensing the tension.
"What's going on?" Lyra asked, her gaze darting between Kael and Astrid.
Astrid's resolve hardened. "I'll help you. Together, we can rescue our family and take down the Shadow Weavers."
_Ryker's Reservation_
Ryker's expression remained skeptical. "We can't trust her. She's been working with the Shadow Weavers."
Astrid's eyes flashed. "I did what I had to do to survive. But I'll prove my loyalty. I know the Shadow Weavers' plans."
Lyra's instincts kicked in. "We need to hear her out."
_Astrid's Revelation_
"The Shadow Weavers plan to use the keystone to unlock the Ancient Temple," Astrid revealed. "Inside lies the source of Aethoria's magic. They'll control the realm."
Kael's jaw clenched. "We won't let that happen."
Lyra's determination hardened. "We have a new mission: stop the Shadow Weavers and rescue your family."