Aurora's POV
"They didn't break her," I whispered.
Stefano's jaw tightened. "No."
"They taught her."
The corridor opened abruptly into a vast chamber, circular and cathedral-like, its ceiling disappearing into shadow. Pillars carved with crescent sigils rose around the perimeter, black candles burning at their bases. At the center, a raised stone dais stood empty.
Waiting.
Witches lined the outer ring dozens of them in robes, with faces calm, eyes tracking my every movement. No fear. No hostility.
Expectation.
High Witch Morwen stepped forward from the circle, her expression serene.
"Luna Aurora," she said, inclining her head just enough to acknowledge my authority without submitting to it. "You arrive precisely when the convergence completes."
My power stirred, restless.
"Where is my sister?" I demanded.
Morwen smiled faintly. "Safe. Awake. Finally unafraid."
The words struck like a challenge.
"You imprisoned her," I said coldly.
