Echoes of Darkness

As the team returned to Aetheris, the city's familiar silhouette offered a semblance of comfort amidst their growing unease. They entered through the main gates, greeted by wary guards and curious onlookers. Lady Seraphina met them at the entrance to the council hall, her expression a mix of relief and concern.

"You've returned," she said, her voice steady but with an undercurrent of worry. "Were you successful?"

Alaric nodded, holding up the container with the Shadowheart safely enclosed. "We have the artifact, but we encountered someone in the temple—a messenger. They warned us of a greater threat."

Lady Seraphina's eyes widened slightly, and she gestured for them to follow her inside. "We need to discuss this immediately. The council is waiting."