Chapter 50: Kael's Past
Ava's POV
Kael's eyes narrowed. "What's your role in this, Council?"
The Council member's expression turned grave. "We've walked a fine line, balancing the prophecy's forces. But our actions have consequences. We require your cooperation to ensure the prophecy unfolds as intended."
Lyrien stepped forward. "What do you propose?"
The Council member handed me a parchment. "Solve the riddle, Ava. It will reveal the next step in the prophecy."
I unfolded the parchment, revealing a cryptic message:
"Where shadows dance, light reveals
The keystone's path, through ancient seals"
Kael's POV:
I watched Ava's determination as she studied the riddle. Her focus was admirable, but I knew the prophecy's complexity would test her limits.
As the Council's words echoed in my mind, I couldn't shake the feeling that they were hiding something. Their interest in Ava seemed... calculated.
"Ava, let's discuss the riddle," Aethera said, guiding her toward a nearby table.
I stepped aside, my eyes scanning the room. The Council's chambers seemed ordinary, but I sensed hidden mechanisms, secrets waiting to be uncovered.
My thoughts drifted to my past, to the events that had shaped me into the person I am today. The memories I'd kept hidden, even from Ava.
A figure emerged from the shadows – a woman with piercing green eyes.
"Kael," she whispered, her voice husky. "We need to talk."
I recognized her – Niamh, a skilled warrior and my former ally.
"Niamh, what brings you here?" I asked, wary.
Niamh's gaze locked onto mine. "The prophecy, Kael. It's not what you think. Ava's role is crucial, but there's more at play."
I raised an eyebrow. "What do you know?"
Niamh's smile was enigmatic. "Let's just say I've been watching from the shadows. Meet me outside the village tonight, and I'll reveal more."
With that, she vanished into the darkness, leaving me with more questions than answers.