Darell murmured an ancient incantation, inspired by the sacred words of the old mages:
*"Lumina aeterna, protego filia mea. Aqua velum, celare veritatem. Potestas sanguinis, revela originem!"*
An invisible force lifted the young Miria and threw her into the lake. At the same moment, dark shadows surged toward the boat. Darell activated his powers and triggered a powerful explosion. The shockwave threw Miria (in her spectral form) into the water.
She sank into the depths, watching the burning boat drift away. Silent tears rolled down her cheeks as she descended.
Suddenly, voices called to her:
"Miria… Miria…"
She turned her head in every direction, searching for the source of the voices. Just as she thought she was reaching the bottom of the lake, the water seemed to open onto a vast hidden chamber.
She found herself facing four mysterious women, standing in a semicircle, bathed in supernatural light.
The first had long raven-black hair, piercing metallic gray eyes, and an almost luminescent pale complexion.
The second had wild coppery hair, intense golden eyes, and tanned skin, radiating animal strength.
The third had flamboyant red curls, deep green eyes, and fair skin dotted with freckles, with a palpable magical aura around her.
The fourth had light brown hair tied in a strict braid, piercing steel-blue eyes, and a matte complexion, with the posture of a warrior.
The four women looked at her with an intensity that took her breath away.