The sky above the Western Coalition Capital burned with geometric light.
Arcane lines stretched from tower to tower, forming a massive lattice across the clouds. Mana roared like a storm contained inside invisible walls.
Ethan felt it before he saw the city.
Pressure.
Not wild.
Directed.
Disciplined.
Dangerous.
Kaelith hovered beside him, dark wings cutting through high winds.
"They're drawing continental ley lines," she said, eyes narrowed. "Ambitious for creatures who burn out after eighty years."
Ronan rode a summoned wind current slightly behind them, expression grim.
"The Grand Arcanum Tower is the ritual focus," he said. "If they're using the capital's full reserve…"
He didn't finish.
They all understood.
The System pulsed.
[Human Grand Array — 71% Completion]
[Estimated Output: Seal Suppression / Forced Closure Attempt]
[Risk of Catastrophic Feedback: High]
Ethan descended first.
He did not conceal his presence.
He let the frostfire blaze.
Let them see.
