Light Fae Realm:
The enchanted pool trembled almost reverently, for the first time in almost two thousand years.
The surface remained perfectly smooth, yet something ancient moved beneath it.
The Light Fae King stopped speaking.
Every waterfall surrounding the throne room faltered for the briefest heartbeat before continuing their endless ascent toward the floating rivers above.
The silence that followed was wrong.
He slowly turned toward the enchanted basin resting at the center of the chamber.
No one had touched it, and no messenger stood nearby. Yet silver light continued blooming beneath its surface.
The light was soft, patient, and waiting.
The King's expression hardened.
"This..." He took one slow step forward. "is not our magic."
Every member of his court became still.
The basin brightened, and a single crimson droplet appeared upon the water.
It should have sunk.
