Kaiden's gaze swept across the faces before him, ranging from the elders, to Loden and Wulfric, and finally settling on the unwavering energy wolf standing its ground. The uncertain expression on Kaiden's face betrayed the turmoil of emotions within. The energy wolf, with its steady gaze fixed on the council, added an air of tension to the already heavy atmosphere. The outcome of this unexpected turn of events seemed to hinge on the next move, each moment filled with anticipation and apprehension.

Evelyn stepped forth with a determined stride, her honey brown hair cascading around her face. A flash of fiery justice burned in her light green eyes, hinting at the strength of her convictions. As she positioned herself, her voice rang out with clarity, cutting through the tension in the air.

"Kaiden," Evelyn began, her tone both commanding and measured. "Your actions, although unprecedented, have clearly evoked something within the celestial being. Though it is against tradition, we must consider the significance of this event. We should disperse and reconvene.”

Rhoesida stepped forward, her dark green eyes piercing as she moved with a swiftness that made even the air quiver. Evelyn, momentarily taken aback by Rhoesida's fiery gaze, lowered her head in submission. Rhoesida's icy gaze next bore into Kaiden as she stepped forward farther, her short light brown hair still as a statue, in stark contrast to her swift movement. "Kaiden," she spoke, her voice firm and unyielding. Her authoritative demeanor left no room for doubt as she pronounced the words, "You have broken a sacred taboo by touching the celestial beast form of Astryaln. You have disturbed the timeless ritual, upsetting the balance and desecrating the sacred sanctity that defines our people.” Rhoesida's voice echoed with a chilling resolve, emphasizing the severity of the transgression. In a deliberate tone, she issued her sentence: "We will serve a sentence now for all to see." The weight of Rhoesida's words hung heavily in the air, signaling the imminent consequences for Kaiden's actions.

Wulfric was quick to speak up, his voice tinged with urgency, "Head Elder, the Priestess did not know of this tradition. He is not of this world remember!" However, Rhoesida swiftly silenced him with a dismissive gesture, her demeanor unflinching. Wulfric's frustration was palpable as he clenched his teeth and rested his hand on the hilt of his sword, prepared for whatever might come next.

Rhoesida's authoritative wave of her hand silenced Wulfric's plea, her gaze unwavering as she addressed the assembly once again. "Wulfric, the ignorance of our traditions does not absolve culpability," she stated firmly, her gaze unyielding. "Kaiden's actions disrupt the very essence of the ritual and threaten its sacred nature. Punishment is necessary to uphold the sanctity of our customs."

Kaiden's gaze darted between Rhoesida's unyielding expression and Wulfric's defensive stance, his thoughts swirling with uncertainty. He contemplated breaking the tense silence, his instincts urging him to defend himself. Should he plead his case, or would it further exacerbate the situation? The anticipation in the air thickened, and the weight of the moment hung heavy on Kaiden's shoulders.

Kaiden took a deep breath and made a defiant decision, stepping out from the protective shield of Wulfric and Loden to face Rhoesida directly. The movement spoke volumes of his determination and resolve, as he positioned himself directly in front of the head elder, his eyes locked with her intense gaze. Kaiden's display of conviction could not be ignored, its gravity permeating the charged atmosphere.

Kaiden's words flowed with a newfound conviction and confidence as he addressed Rhoesida, his voice steady and resolute. "Rhoesida," he began, a hint of a smirk playing on his lips, "I must clarify that I was unaware of this tradition, and no one within this country informed me of it. I genuinely apologize for my actions, as I understand that it was the whims of Astryaln that led me astray." Kaiden's words carried a mixture of sincerity and a touch of defiance, adding a layer of complexity to the already charged atmosphere.

Kaiden pressed on, not allowing Rhoesida a chance to interject. "Furthermore," he continued, his voice carrying a tone of conviction, "I must emphasize that it was Astryaln himself, in its celestial wolf form, who extended the initial contact. I merely responded to his desire, fulfilling the wishes of Astryaln himself. Therefore, I humbly implore you to consider the extraordinary circumstances of this encounter and reflect upon the divine nature of Astryaln's intentions." Kaiden's words added a layer of mysticism to the already captivating scene.

Rhoesida's face flushed with anger as Kaiden's words resonated through the courtyard, causing murmurs to ripple through the crowd. "The priestess dares to retort to the head elder," some whispered, while others remarked, "The Priestess is correct. Astryaln..." The tension in the air grew palpable as the conversation turned, highlighting Kaiden's defiance and challenging traditions.

Rhoesida's gaze swept over the crowd, instantly silencing their murmurs. Turning back to Kaiden, she retorted, "You, Kaiden, do not decipher the signs of Astryaln. We, the Council, hold the responsibility to interpret his divine intentions. Your mere actions, though seemingly defiant, hold no sway over the ancient practices and customs that govern our society."

“Perhaps another should decipher my signs," a voice boomed, echoing through the courtyard. The unexpected voice caused a ripple of confusion and awe to pass through the crowd. Heads turned, seeking the source of the voice. Kaiden's eyes quickly shifted toward the energy wolf, recognizing the familiar tone and realizing the source of the profound words. Rhoesida and the elders stood frozen, their faces etched with confusion and uncertainty of who had spoken.

"Astryaln," Kaiden whispered, his voice barely audible, yet filled with reverence and wonder. The name hung in the air, its power palpable.

Astryaln's voice resonated with a mix of satisfaction and familiarity, "My priestess, it is a pleasure to cross paths with you once more." The luminescence energy wolf stepped forward, its features softening as it positioned itself beside Kaiden, fixing its gaze on Rhoesida and the council next. The air crackled with energy as the presence of Astryaln seemed to alter the very fabric of the atmosphere.

The council members exchanged uneasy glances, their confusion evident.

Astryaln's voice carried a weight of timeless wisdom and unshakable authority as it addressed Rhoesida. "Rhoesida," it said, "you must comprehend that my actions are woven within the very essence of this world, transcending the confines of mortal perception and the judgments of any council or individual. My decisions, grounded in the ancient powers that shape this world, are not bound by human understanding or approval."

All the council members stood frozen in both awe and apprehension as Astryaln's words echoed in the courtyard.

Rhoesida stood resolute in her defiance, her hands clenched into fists. "This is naught but trickery," she declared, her voice quivering with anger. "We, the Elder Council, hold the sacred duty to interpret Astryaln's intentions. We do not listen to mere charlatans."

The tension in the courtyard mounted as Rhoesida's words hung in the air. It was clear that the council would not surrender their perceived authority easily, not in her eyes.

The somber expression on the energy wolf's face reflected its sense of disappointment in Rhoesida's refusal to concede. As the energy wolf was about to speak again, a familiar voice called out from the distance, its tones carrying a soothing and authoritative resonance. Kaiden, recognizing the voice immediately, turned his gaze in the direction of the sound, and there, in the majestic presence, stood the Empress. Her robes swayed delicately, the aura of her presence permeating the tension in the courtyard.

The Empress herself, stepping forward with authority in her commanding presence from the royal throne Dias. "Rhoesida, enough!" her voice echoed again with unquestionable authority.

The Elder Council behind Rhoesida looked shocked by the Empress's unexpected intervention.

As Empress Caecilia ascended the platform, her regal presence radiating an air of authority and wisdom. Her voice, gentle but commanding, cut through the tension in the courtyard once again.

"Rhoesida, the Elder Council," Caecilia began, her tone calm but firm, "your adherence to tradition is commendable, but Astryaln's ways are as vast and unpredictable as the stars above. We must seek understanding, not condemnation."

The eyes of the council members darted between Rhoesida and the Empress, caught in the ebb and flow of this unforeseen encounter.

"I sense a profound misunderstanding amongst you," Caecilia’s voice resonated with authority, her words carrying the weight of the empire. She looked directly at Rhoesida and continued, "My words are intended for you, Rhoesida. The celestial guide you speak of is none other than Astryaln himself. Denying or challenging his guidance is tantamount to defying the very essence of our existence."

Rhoesida's voice rang out with a mix of frustration and stubbornness as she spoke. "Elders," she began, her tone resolute, "tradition is the very backbone of our society. It is the foundation that guides our daily lives and keeps our empire strong. To disregard it is to threaten the very fabric of our existence."

The council members exchanged glances, caught between the rigid adherence to custom and the emergence of new perspectives. Some nodded in agreement, while others remained silent, contemplating the potential consequences of defying tradition.

"Council members," the Empress's voice boomed, her words cutting through the tension with a tone of finality. "I implore you to consider the unique events that have unfolded here today. This priestess, chosen by Astryaln himself, shares a connection with the sacred powers that guide our world. His actions should be respected and not dismissed. Traditions can change.”

Kaiden's heart skipped a beat as the Empress's voice echoed through the courtyard, her presence commanding the attention of everyone present.

As Astryaln's voice resonated through the chamber, his words carrying a sense of both gratitude and caution. "Empress, my gratitude is boundless for your support," he expressed, his tones soft yet commanding attention.

"However," Astryaln continued, his voice turning more serious, a hint of accusation lacing his tone, "it is imperative to acknowledge that the presence of an 'imposter' among us adds another layer of complexity to this situation."

The Emperor's command echoed through the chamber, his voice a thunderous rumble that demanded immediate attention. "Guards, to the Empress!" he barked, his words cutting through the air. The Emperor's urgent command for the guards to protect the Empress jolted the atmosphere. The guards and Wulfric swiftly moved to secure her safety. Wulfric pulled the Empress off the platform to be distanced away from the danger. Wulfric, ever the royal captain guard, stood in readiness, his weapon now at the ready, his gaze scanning the surroundings with unwavering vigilance. In an instant, a troupe of royal guards, clad in gleaming armor and bearing weapons, sprang into action. With disciplined efficiency and unwavering loyalty, they surrounded Empress Caecilia, forming a shield of steel and devotion.

Loden and Wulfric swiftly scanned the crowd, their eyes darting in various directions, seeking out any potential signs or movements among the crowd for this threat. However, their quick search yielded no immediate results, and they exchanged subtle shakes of their heads.

Astryaln's luminescent tail twirled gracefully, emitting a soft, incandescent glow as it swept across the platform. The radiant energy passed through the council members, Loden, and Kaiden, causing their bodies to briefly emit a fleeting luminescence.

Kaiden's focus shifted to Rhoesida, his senses picking up on an unusual detail. Rhoesida's body seemed to stand out, but not in a desirable way. Instead of a radiant glow, her form emanated an eerie darkness, as if a shadow had taken a physical form.

Kaiden, having observed the unusual phenomenon, nudged Loden's shoulder, drawing his attention to Rhoesida's shadowy form. "It's Rhoesida," Kaiden murmured, a mixture of disbelief and concern in his voice, "the Head Elder, she's the one... Look."

Loden, startled by the revelation, followed Kaiden's gaze, his eyes widening as he observed the dark aura enveloping Rhoesida.

Loden's voice echoed through the courtyard, a mix of urgency and determination in his tone. "Wulfric!" he called out, his voice carrying a gravity that demanded attention.

As Wulfric and the audience turned their gaze towards the stage, their eyes fixated on Rhoesida and her ominous aura. The contrast between her dark presence and the luminous energy surrounding the others was stark, creating a palpable tension in the air.

Rhoesida's expression shifted into a sinister smile, her voice now laced with a haunting tone. "I suppose there's no point in concealing my presence any longer," she declared, her hands clapping together.

As Rhoesida performed this act, a palpable wave of dark energy emanated forth, enveloping her in a sinister cocoon. The contrast to the earlier events was stark, as her dark aura clashed with the luminous atmosphere.

As the cocoon dissipated, revealing a young, hardened figure wearing dark robes, Kaiden's mind wrestled with a gnawing sense of familiarity. However, with a dismissive shake of his head, he brushed off the feeling, pushing it aside.

Evelyn's voice pierced the air, filled with a mixture of surprise and concern. "Carwyn, is that you? What happened?" Kaiden's mind stirred with recollection. The name struck a chord deep within him.

"Carwyn," he silently mouthed, the name resonating with a profound meaning. With that realization, Kaiden understood. The young figure standing before them was Carwyn, the elder who had left the Council the previous day. A mix of shock and confusion crossed Kaiden's face at the realization of the figure's identity and appearance.

Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

Meanwhile, the male figure, presumably Carwyn, turned his attention to Evelyn, a malevolent glint in his eyes.

Carwyn's sneer grew more pronounced, a sinister amusement dancing in his eyes as he addressed Evelyn. "Ah, poor Evelyn, the ever-naive follower," he taunted, his voice dripping with scorn. "If only you had heeded my guidance, just like Elowen and Alaric did, instead of clinging to this illusory notion."

He paused, his tone changing to one of sinister revelation, "This so-called 'apparition' is nothing but a mere figment. Astryaln himself came to me in a vision. Accept the truth!"

Evelyn vehemently denied Carwyn's words, shaking her head with conviction. "You're mistaken, Carwyn. This is indeed Astryaln," she asserted, her fists clenching tightly. "Your judgment is biased and clouded by false beliefs. Embrace the truth of Astryaln's presence among us."

“Silence, you insolent girl!" Carwyn's voice boomed, his annoyance evident as he waved his hand. In an instant, a shroud of darkness enveloped Evelyn, constricting her movements and silencing her voice.

The atmosphere within the courtyard grew even more tense as Carwyn's actions demonstrated a ruthless display of control. Evelyn's struggles were futile against the binding darkness. The audience was silent in the crowd, unsure of what to do. Run, scream, or stay frozen in place watching the scene unfold in front of them.

Kaiden's voice broke through the silence that was building, his plea resounding in the courtyard. "Carwyn, cease this! Release Evelyn, now!" Alongside his command, Loden's sword flashed into view, his body ready for a potential attack.

The clash of light and darkness grew more palpable as Kaiden and Loden stood their ground atop the platform, ready to defend against Carwyn's dark influence and to rescue Evelyn.

Carwyn's attention shifted to Kaiden and Loden, his sneer deepening as he addressed them. "Ah, the mighty Priestess, what a spectacle," he jeered, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Astrylann would not summon a male to serve under him. You, my sir, are the fake."

Carwyn's voice boomed with arrogance and conviction, cutting off Kaiden's attempt to respond. "I have communed with the celestial being Astryaln himself," Carwyn declared, his tone filled with self-assuredness. "He has bestowed upon me the truth. This charade shall end, and you shall never be Priestess."

The courtyard echoed with the weight of Carwyn's words, the clash of beliefs intensifying as his claim cast doubt upon Kaiden's role and the credibility of the ceremony. The crowd listened intently, watching the clash between both sides unfolding before them.

Kaiden's gaze flicked upward, seeking answers from the energy wolf. However, he could not discern the creature's intentions. The energy wolf remained impassive, its enigmatic presence offering no clear insight into its intentions or willingness to defend itself or aid in the situation. Frustration washed over Kaiden as he realized that the onus was on him to navigate this precarious moment on his own. Kaiden turned his gaze back toward Carwyn, wanting to face him as he spoke.

"I am the Priestess of Astryaln," he declared emphatically, his words filled with certainty. "You cannot undermine my position. Astryaln himself gave me this opportunity, and despite being a man, I am prepared to carry out his will just as those before me have done."

Kaiden's statement stood as a declaration of his commitment and loyalty to Astryaln's cause, asserting his undeniable claim to the role of Priestess.

Kaiden's gaze shifted back to the wolf, his eyes widening momentarily as if he had glimpsed a subtle blush across its glowing fur. The fleeting notion sent a brief surge of perplexity through him, but he quickly dismissed it as nothing more than a trick of the vibrant energy illuminating the wolf's form.

Carwyn stared intensely, his words infused with a dark conviction. "Bah! Mere words! False words!" he spat, his gaze unwavering. "I have been blessed with knowledge and might by Astryaln himself to restore our empire to its rightful traditions, as it should have been all along!"

As Carwyn's declaration echoed through the courtyard, the darkness around him seemed to pulsate in sync with his words, its malevolence becoming palpable.

Kaiden's initial instinct was to flinch as the tendrils of darkness spread further from Carwyn's form, a flicker of apprehension crossing his face. However, with a determined shake of his head, he willed himself to remain resolute, refusing to succumb to fear.

"No," Kaiden thought to himself, "I must not cower now. I am a symbol of Astryaln's will, and I must stand strong to face this challenge." With steely resolve, Kaiden prepared to confront whatever came next from Carwyn.

Kaiden, his determination unwavering, stepped around Loden, evading Loden's grip to hold him behind him. As Kaiden stepped forward, Loden's attempt to restrain him once again came a moment too late. "Kaiden, wait!" Loden implored, concern etching his features. As Loden's voice implored him to reconsider, Kaiden took another resolute step toward Carwyn.

"Trust me, Loden," Kaiden replied calmly, his voice laced with unwavering resolve. "I believe in Astryaln's guidance, and I will not stand idly by while our traditions are threatened."

Loden, seeking support or guidance, turned to Wulfric for help. Yet, Wulfric mirrored Loden's own uncertainty, adding to the situation.

Wulfric and Loden exchanged questioning looks, their eyes betraying a sense of helplessness in the face of Kaiden's resolute defiance. Before Loden could voice further concerns, Carwyn's mocking voice broke through.

"Oh, how noble," Carwyn jeered, his dark cloak swirling around him like a sinister shadow. "Are you going to confront me, yourself, Kaiden? You truly are the fake one. For the priestess would have her warriors do it."

As Kaiden positioned himself, standing a few feet away from Carwyn, the tendrils of darkness crept ever closer, their ominous presence nearly reaching his feet. He glanced back at Loden, Wulfric, and the Astrayln, a silent understanding passing between them. As Kaiden turned back to face Carwyn once again, Kaiden felt more energized by his friends behind him.

"I can handle you,” Kaiden asserted, his voice carrying a steely resolve. "I don't need Loden or Wulfric's assistance. I was chosen by Astryaln for a reason, and I am worthy. Let us see who truly wields the power of Astryaln!"

As Kaiden finished speaking the dark tendrils now swirl around his feet, threatening to engulf him in their ominous embrace.

Carwyn's ominous laughter echoed through the courtyard, filling the air with an unsettling tension. In an instant, dark tendrils surged forward, enveloping Kaiden, binding him tightly as they snaked around his body, locking him in place. Carwyn's menacing yell pierced the air, his eyes fixed on Loden, who had moved a step closer.

"One more move," Carwyn taunted, his voice laced with darkness, "and your precious 'fake' shall be squashed into oblivion. How utterly pathetic!"

Loden's urgent plea echoed, his voice filled with desperation. "Kaiden!" he called out, joined by echoes from the Emperor and Empress, and Wulfric. Loden's gaze turned upward, imploringly, to the energy wolf, hoping for a sign, a sign of Astryaln's intervention.

“If you are Astryaln, do something, intervene. Help him!” Loden's words hung in the air, a fervent plea for assistance. However, the energy wolf remained stoic and passive, unyielding to either side.

The tension in the room reached a peak as everyone's fate hinged on the energy wolf's response, their hopes and doubts blending into an urgent call for intervention.

Kaiden stood steadfast in the grip of the dark tendrils, refusing to struggle. His eyes darted between everyone, watching them with a mix of determination and hope. He believed in his connection with Astryaln and hoped that his faith would serve him well to escape this hold.

Carwyn's laughter rang out once more, a dark and mocking tone. His gaze shifted between Kaiden and the energy wolf, the former enveloped in dark tendrils, the latter remaining stoic. Carwyn's voice brimmed with sinister confidence as he declared, "As the heavens cast light on the righteous, Astrylann has affirmed my truth. This heretical priestess and this false wolf must be destroyed. It is only then that our empire shall be blessed and embraced by Astryaln once again."

The energy wolf, Astryaln, emitted a soft laugh tinged with amusement. "Ah, humans, ignorant and amusing creatures they are," the wolf mused. With a subtle motion, the wolf pressed its paws harder onto the platform, causing a crack to ripple through the stone surface. The air crackled with anticipation as if nature itself bristled at the confrontation.

"Foolish mortal!” Astryaln declares, his voice booming. "I stand before you as one of the four celestial beast gods, creators of this very world. You, a puny mortal, dare to challenge me and my chosen vessel. Your audacity knows no bounds. This charade ends now.”

Astryaln's anger resonated in the very air, a testament to his divine stature. The crack in the platform grew larger, a tangible sign of the celestial being's immense power.

Carwyn's expression flickered with fear as the vibration of the growing crack intensified, briefly exposing his inner turmoil. However, he swiftly regained his composure, masking his fear with a sneer that twisted his features. He stood his ground, unwilling to yield despite the encroaching power of Astryaln.

Loden's eyes widened as the crack stretched further along the stone floor, the sheer power of Astryaln on full display. Stealing a glance at Kaiden, he hesitated, contemplating whether to intervene. Yet, he noted Kaiden's calm demeanor, which hinted at a deeper trust and connection with Astryaln. Loden decided to trust Kaiden's instincts, choosing to observe and await the unfolding events with cautious anticipation.

"Carwyn," Wulfric shouted, demanding an explanation, "Where is the true head elder, Rhoesida?" His query hung in the air, seeking answers about the missing elder who should have been present to oversee the ritual.

Carwyn momentarily flustered by the unexpected question, quickly collected himself. A sinister smile played on his lips as he responded, "Oh, the head elder? She's... indisposed at the moment."

The elders gathered behind Carwyn exchanged worried glances and murmurs amongst themselves, creating a faint undercurrent of tension. Evelyn ensnared in the shadowy tendrils, struggled with increasing agitation. Her face twisted with questions and righteous anger, silently wondering what had become of the real head elder, her friend.

Kaiden's forehead creased with worry as the mention of the elder's whereabouts heightened his concern. Carwyn's enigmatic smirk did little to alleviate his anxiety. The thought of Rhoesidla being harmed—or worse—sent a pang of trepidation through him. He silently hoped that his fears were unfounded, that the head elder was simply detained elsewhere, safe and unharmed.

Carwyn spun towards Kaiden, the malevolent smirk on his lips stretching wider.

"Enough of this farce," he declared, his voice laced with malice. "It's time to put an end to this charade, starting with you. Once you're gone, that pesky wolf should vanish alongside you."

The energy wolf, its voice laden with authority, snarled at Carwyn. "You believe that harming my vessel will make me disappear? Your ignorance is astonishing. The true power of the priestess will be unleashed, and I will obliterate you in response to your foolish actions. You are nothing but a pathetic human worm in my presence."

Loden alarmed by Carwyn's approach to Kaiden, made a move to intervene. However, before he could take a step, the energy wolf intervened, positioning its foreleg firmly in his path. The wolf whispered softly, "Patience. Trust in Kaiden and me. He will not be harmed."

Loden halted, his concern momentarily halted as he looked from the wolf to Kaiden, his faith in the energy being waning.

Loden's voice was filled with concern and worry as he whispered back quietly. "But, in the past when Kaiden has harnessed your power, it has left him weakened and hurt him physically. How can I be sure this time is different?"

The energy wolf gently shook its head, its ancient eyes radiating with a powerful, unwavering conviction. Its voice rumbled with the weight of centuries, "Have faith, as I've said. I chose Kaiden with a purpose. He will unveil his true strength, unmatched by any past priestess before him. He is the final one, and he will prevail. Simply watch and witness his transformation."

Loden's gaze darted around, seeking guidance from Wulfric, only to find the empress struggling against Wulfric and the guards, desperate to reach the stage. Loden let out an exasperated sigh, his attention split between Kaiden and the unfolding drama at the base of the platform.

Kaiden locked gazes with Carwyn, defiance and determination etched into every feature of his face. With a voice filled with conviction, he declared, "No matter what you do, I am still the Priestess of Astryaln. Good always prevails over the darkness."

Carwyn stood next to Kaiden, a sinister smile playing on his lips as he whispers back. “We shall see.”

Carwyn produces a slender dagger from his robes, quickly unsheathing it with a swift motion. The dagger in his hand has a wickedly curved blade, Carwyn positions the tip against Kaiden's chest. With a flourish, he proclaimed, "Let all who bear witness now behold the true power of Astryaln, by my hands!"

Loden felt a pang of panic rise within him, the urge to intervene overpowering. But the energy wolf's enormous paw blocked his progress once more. The beast's commanding voice reached Loden's ears, urging him to wait.

“Wait," the energy wolf boomed, his eyes locked onto Loden.

Loden found himself torn, wrestling with his own impulses, as the looming danger to Kaiden intensified. Could he really stand aside and let the Kaiden risk his life like this?

Kaiden maintained eye contact with Carwyn, his body radiating an unusual tranquility in the face of the imminent threat. In a steady, calm voice, he addressed the skies, his words laden with a sense of devotion.

“Astryaln, celestial guardian of the south, my life is in your hands, as it has been since my arrival. I honor and protect your grace in this moment. I implore you, have mine as well."

Carwyn's smirk vanished, replaced by a look tinged with fury. In a swift, decisive motion, he drew the dagger back and thrust it forward, the tip making contact with Kaiden's flesh. But just as the metal was about to penetrate Kaiden’s skin, an unfathomable power surged through the air and the blade shattered into fragments, floating eerily suspended in the air between them. An air of incredulity washed over Carwyn as astonishment gripped the spectators around them.

Carwyn stumbled back, his expression a mix of disbelief and bewilderment at the display before him. Everyone in the courtyard watched, transfixed, as the shards of metal moved with a mind of their own, swirling in the air, bathed in a radiant glow. The shards moved with a swift, powerful motion, striking the dark tendrils holding Kaiden captive, and they promptly withered away under its force.

As the last dark tendrils disappeared around Kaiden’s body. The glowing shards started to respond to an internal logic, moving around Kaiden's body with deliberate precision. Some shards ascended to his head, settling into a specific pattern, while others migrated to his back, forming another arrangement. In their movement, there was an intentional intelligence, as though the shards knew exactly where they were supposed to be positioned.

The shards, initially resembling isolated stars floating around Kaiden, seemed to come together in a mesmerizing display. As if guided by an unseen hand, they released gentle light rays, connecting the shards and forming a coherent picture. Two ears unfurled from the top of his head, and a tail sprouted from his behind. The transformation was astonishing, as if the essence of a wolf had become one with Kaiden's being.

Kaiden's gaze traveled to where Evelyn stood, a sense of relief washing over him as the dark tendrils surrounding her dissipated. Their eyes met, and with a slight nod, she affirmed her safety, signaling to him that she was fine. In response, Kaiden's shoulders relaxed imperceptibly, the tension in his body easing. He remained vigilant, ensuring everyone's safety, as Evelyn hurried to join the other elders farther back on the platform.

The crowd, silent and awestruck, could scarcely believe the transformation they witnessed. Whispering filled the air, the elders sharing quiet, disbelieving murmurs, captivated by the surreal sight. Carwyn, initially speechless, his anger stirred to life, his face contorted with disbelief and outrage.

Carwyn's words hung in the air, his voice pleading, attempting to sow doubt in the minds of the gathered people. However, his efforts went in vain, as the crowd, wholly convinced by the truth of Kaiden's role and the presence of Astryaln, turned away from Carwyn's attempts to sway them. Their faith in Kaiden and the power of Astryaln was unwavering, leaving Carwyn's pleas to fall on deaf ears.

Carwyn, seething with anger and muttering under his breath, directed his fiery red glare at Kaiden. In a fit of rage, he stepped forward, prepared to attack. But his advance was abruptly halted as the powerful energy wolf swiftly picked him up with its teeth, hoisting him off the ground with ease. The wolf's sudden movement left Carwyn suspended in mid-air, completely caught off guard.

Carwyn's struggles and shouts filled the air as he hung suspended mid-air, his rage only fueling the spectacle before the crowd. Loden slowly approached Kaiden, moving to stand by his side, his presence a reassuring constant. Wulfric, the ever-constant presence, joined them on the platform once more, his solemn stance a testament to his unwavering support.

Kaiden's slight shift of stance caused the tail and ears to follow the movement, both physical aspects moving in tandem with his body. He paid no heed to the strange sensations where the energy made contact with his form, his gaze shifting instead to Astryaln. He silently pleaded through his silent prayer with Astryaln in his energy wolf messenger body, imploring him not to consume Carwyn.