Chapter 7: The Order's Pursuit
The chaos of the auction house had turned into a full-blown battle. Order mercenaries in dark armor advanced, their burning eyes locked onto Zara as they realized what had just happened. She had accomplished the unthinkable—merged with the Shard of Aether, the same power they had sought to control for centuries.
Zara wasn't going to let them win without a fight.
With a single motion, she summoned the shadows that were around her and shaped them into a vortex of darkness. The mercenaries stumbled, unsure of how to approach her now that she had the complete power of the Shard. Zara could not afford to hesitate.
She lashed out, the shadows moving with a will of their own, striking down the first wave of attackers. The air crackled with energy as she sent blast afterdon't trust outsiders, especially ones with ties to the Order, even if they're on the run. They'll want to know what you bring to the table."
Zara took the napkin, her mind already racing through the possibilities. "I'll take my chances."
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