The canyon held its breath.

From the jagged cliffs of the Hollow, moonlight streamed in silver beams, illuminating the ancient stones. The air was thick with anticipation. Above them, the sky churned with slow, silent clouds. The Circle stood in reverent silence as the last of the old runes flared to life beneath their feet.

Aria stood at the center, a thin thread of spirit silk wrapped around her wrist—warm, luminous, humming with dormant power.

“It’s responding to her,” Thalia ...