The crystal blade in Kael's hand pulsed with an otherworldly resonance as he traced his fingers along its luminescent edge. The events in the Crystal Caves had left an indelible mark on all of them, but none more so than Darien. Their former mentor sat quietly by the crystalline pool, his weathered features illuminated by the soft, ambient glow of the restored sanctum.
Morgana approached carefully, her crowned head casting prismatic patterns across the chamber walls. The blessed pendant at her throat continued its steady rhythm, though its intensity had diminished since the confrontation. "The darkness may have retreated," she said softly, "but its echoes remain. We must be vigilant."
Darien lifted his gaze, the shadow of guilt still evident in his eyes. "The knowledge I sought... the power I thought I needed..." He shook his head, a bitter smile playing at his lips. "It was all there, right in front of us. In the very unity I rejected."