The torches flickered as Selene entered the hall, her black veil catching the light like liquid shadow. Though she walked with calm grace, every step carried a weight that made even seasoned disciples bow their heads.
The elders' gazes hardened.
"Selene," Elder Rahn's voice was cold, "you trespass on matters that do not concern you."
Her laugh was soft, like silk tearing.
"On the contrary, Elder. When your judgment threatens the stability of this sect, it concerns me greatly."
The disciples gasped. No one spoke to the elders this way.
---
Serpent's Tongue
Selene circled slowly, her presence weaving like smoke through the hall.
"You claim this boy wields forbidden power. But tell me… is it forbidden because it is evil, or because you cannot control it?"
The elders stiffened.
"You fear what you do not understand. Yet was it not fear that allowed the rival sects to burn half your lands a generation ago? While you cowered behind your 'rules,' the heavens themselves laughed."
Her words dripped venom. Every disciple in the hall hung on them.
---
Turning the Blade
Elder Rahn slammed his staff down, but the crack in his voice betrayed his anger.
"His chains are unnatural. If unchecked, they may devour us all."
Selene tilted her head.
"Then bind him to your cause, instead of pushing him into the arms of your enemies. Or…"
Her veil shifted just enough to show a hint of a smile.
"…would you rather drive him away, and gift your foes a weapon they could never forge themselves?"
The weight of her words fell like a hammer. Even the elders faltered.
---
The Decision
After a long silence, Elder Rahn finally spoke.
"Very well. Arhaan will not be executed. But he will undergo the Trial of Heaven's Chains. If he survives, his loyalty belongs to this sect. If he fails…"
His eyes narrowed.
"…he dies, and the problem dies with him."
Selene bowed faintly, as if she had orchestrated this outcome from the start.
"Then we are agreed."
She turned to Arhaan, her voice soft enough only for him to hear.
"Do not fear the trial. It was always meant for you."