The argument started before dawn in the secure chambers beneath the alchemy laboratory, where the smell of Master Aldara's experiments still lingered in the air like a reminder of choices that couldn't be undone.
Kaelan stood with his back to the others, divine energy flickering around him in patterns that spoke of barely contained frustration.
His silver-marked mask lay on the table beside research notes that detailed methods most civilized people would prefer not to acknowledge existed.
"Consciousness preservation through soul extraction," he said quietly, his voice carrying disappointment that cut deeper than anger ever could.
"Life extension using essence stolen from other living beings. Transmutation that requires materials I don't even want to name. This isn't advancement, Ethan. This is corruption disguised as progress."
Ethan felt the familiar weight of leadership settling around his shoulders as he processed criticism that challenged everything he'd been building.
