Chapter 199 Trial Of The Mind

As the last vestiges of the illusion faded, Ariella found herself back in the dimly lit chamber of the Hidden Sanctuary. The stone walls seemed less oppressive now, and the air no longer hummed with the same intensity. The heavy weight that had been in her chest had lifted, replaced by a quiet strength that felt foreign yet entirely right. She took a steadying breath, her heart still racing from the trial. Lysandra stood before her, her expression unreadable, but Ariella could sense approval in the subtle shift of the older woman's posture. Kael, who had been silently watching from the side, stepped forward, his gaze lingering on her with a mixture of pride and concern.