The council dispersed with thunder in their hearts. Some muttered of chains and execution. Others spoke of destiny and prophecy. But all agreed on one truth:
Arhaan was no longer just a disciple. He was a storm waiting to break.
---
The Quiet Visit
Night deepened. The sect lay in uneasy silence, torches flickering along empty courtyards. Arhaan sat alone in his quarters, his body still aching, his spirit restless. The crimson-gold chains pulsed faintly beneath his skin, humming with suppressed power.
A whisper of movement stirred the shadows.
"Restless, as always," came a soft, melodic voice.
Selene stepped from the moonlight, her figure wrapped in flowing silver robes, her eyes reflecting starlight. She moved like water, graceful, untouchable, yet her presence filled the small chamber.
"You shouldn't be here," Arhaan said quietly, though his tone lacked sharpness.
"And yet I am," Selene replied, lowering herself beside him. "Because the council isn't your only concern anymore."
---
The Warning
She studied him, her gaze piercing.
"You broke bindings that were meant to be eternal. Do you think the heavens will ignore that?"
Arhaan's chains rattled faintly.
"I've defied them once. I'll do it again if I must."
Selene's lips curved, but it wasn't a smile.
"Arrogant words. But power draws eyes, Arhaan. And the heavens… are not the only ones watching. Other sects, rival clans, even those beyond the mortal veil will come for you. Some to claim you. Some to destroy you."
Her voice dropped lower, almost a whisper.
"And when they come, not even this sect will protect you."
---
A Moment of Truth
Arhaan looked at her, truly looked. Beneath the calm poise, there was something else in her eyes—fear, but not for herself. For him.
"Then why tell me this?" he asked.
Selene's gaze softened for the briefest moment.
"Because storms swallow those who stand alone. And though you act like stone, I know…" She paused, then leaned closer, voice barely audible.
"…you are still human."
The chains within him trembled at her words, not from rage or rebellion, but from something deeper—something fragile he hadn't felt in years.