Chapter 986: Chapter 986: The Ritual of Shadows

Elara stood before the Council of Velorn, the ancient book clutched tightly in her hands. The council chamber, a grand hall lined with towering bookshelves and illuminated by flickering torches, was filled with a heavy silence. The council members, a mix of wary scholars, seasoned warriors, and skeptical nobles, watched her intently. At the head of the table sat Lord Roderic, his stern expression reflecting the gravity of the moment.

"You claim this book holds the key to halting the corruption," Lord Roderic began, his voice steady but laden with suspicion. "But at what price? We cannot afford to make a mistake, not with everything at stake."

Elara nodded, stepping forward. She placed the book on the table with a thud that seemed to echo in the silent room. "This book describes a ritual that could sever the connection between the Primordials and the corrupted beings they control. It's our best chance to stop the corruption from consuming Velorn."