Chapitre 64: Choosing the Ember Shadow
Over the following weeks, Lyrus and the generals discreetly identified candidates for the Ember Shadow. Unlike other selections, no open trials were held. Instead, they observed certain individuals known for unwavering loyalty, resourcefulness, and moral strength under pressure.
Alyra recommended a pair of archers who once slipped through enemy lines undetected to warn a village of an impending raid. Their calm under fire and ability to vanish into the woods marked them as ideal infiltrators.
Kael pointed out a lone scout who deciphered enemy codes overnight, quietly saving a supply caravan from an ambush. His intellect and adaptability suited him to the subtle work of sabotage or secret rescue missions.
From Maron's ranks came a shield-bearer who had once stood his ground against three assailants to protect a wounded comrade—his courage and selflessness would make him an unshakable guardian in the shadows.
Ciri nominated a swordswoman who, during a training skirmish, displayed uncanny reflexes and the ability to blend offense and defense seamlessly. Her quick thinking and silent resolve would serve well in sudden, lethal encounters.
Each candidate was invited, under various pretexts, to a remote clearing. There, Lyrus stood alone, no uniforms, no banners. He spoke quietly to each candidate, describing a role veiled in secrecy and moral responsibility. He offered no rank, no fame, only duty.
Some hesitated—this would mean giving up recognition and serving in silence. Yet, all accepted. They understood that true loyalty and honor needed no applause. Lyrus tested them further with a series of discreet evaluations: tracking him through moonlit forests, breaking coded messages left in hollow logs, or slipping unnoticed past well-trained sentries.
Those who succeeded showed not only skill but a clear moral compass. Lyrus needed to be certain that the Ember Shadow would never turn this hidden power against innocents or fracture from within.
By the end, a handful of individuals formed the core of the Ember Shadow. They did not know each other's names fully, only codenames and signals. They belonged not to sparks, flames, wings, or shields now, but to something deeper—an inner flame that burned with quiet intensity, ready to protect the Circle's heart from any lurking darkness.
État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
-- Classement
Power Stone 
-- Power
stone