The golden pillar of light didn't fade after the first surge. It stood firm and fierce, piercing through the clouds as if a divine spear had struck the sky itself.
The calm night that had enveloped the Evergreen Region moments before was shattered. Mana surged like an unstoppable wave, pressing against cities, forests, rivers, and mountains alike.
The ground trembled once more before settling into a low vibration that lingered beneath everything. Those attuned to mana felt it first; even those who weren't sensitive couldn't ignore its presence.
From a high vantage point, as if viewed by a silent bird soaring above, reactions unfolded almost simultaneously.
Inside the Stonehelm Estate, deep within Patriarch Belmont's private office, heavy curtains were drawn over tall windows to block out the night air.
