<p><br></p><p><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">Section 2</span></p><p>Amara's slender fingers moved with precision, threading intricate patterns onto the silk fabric. Her dark hair was tied back, revealing her heart-shaped face and bright, warm smile. As she sewed, her melodious voice filled the room: "Gaudeamus" (Let Us Rejoice)</p><p>"In the warmth of love's embrace</p><p>Our spirits soar, our hearts find space</p><p>With every step, we rise above</p><p>In harmony, our souls entwine with love</p><p>With every breath, our hearts beat strong</p><p>In radiant bliss, our love shines long</p><p>In Luminaria's gentle light</p><p>Our joyful hearts take flight"</p><p>Elian appeared in the doorway, her eyes sparkling. As Amara approached the final verse, Elian's voice blended with hers:</p><p>"Together we'll dance, beneath the stars</p><p>Together, we remain strong"</p><p>Amara's eyes crinkled at the corners, her smile radiant. "You sneaked upon me, dear one!" Elian's gaze turned serious. "Mother, who are the Shadowkrai?"</p><p>Amara's hands paused, her expression faltering. Her eyes, once bright, clouded. "Where did you hear that name, Elian?" Elian's brow furrowed. "I... I just wondered."</p><p>Amara's gaze drifted, her thoughts distant. "Legend speaks of the Shadowkrai," Amara whispered, "beings once human, devoured by darkness. Our ancestors waged war against them, but victory proved impossible. It was Aethera, wielding the ancient power of Kyrios, who ultimately subdued them."</p><p>Elian's curiosity deepened. "Why are they so powerful?" Amara's eyes met Elian's, her voice barely above a whisper. "Some say the Shadowkrai are bound to the land itself, their power rooted in darkness."</p><p>Tension hummed, a living thing that pulsed with unspoken emotions. Elian's eyes searched Amara's face, seeking answers. Amara's expression softened, but her eyes remained guarded.</p><p><br></p><p>The Palace of Elyria</p><p>Soft, golden light spilled through the palace windows, bathing Queen Lyravia's alabaster skin in warmth. Her raven hair, like a dark, cascading waterfall, framed her face as Elpida tenderly washed away the night's remnants. The scent of rose petals and orange blossoms wafted from the bathwater, mingling with the sweet fragrance of Lyravia's perfume.</p><p>Elpida's skilled hands massaged scented oils into Lyravia's shoulders, easing the tension from her regal posture. Lyravia's eyes, pools of sapphire, closed, allowing herself a fleeting moment of serenity.</p><p>"Your Majesty," Elpida whispered, "Commander Orion requests an audience." Lyravia's lids fluttered open. "See to my attire, Elpida. I will receive him."</p><p>Elpida swiftly draped Lyravia in a gown of ivory silk, adorned with intricate gold embroidery. The queen's elegance was undeniable as she descended to the throne room.</p><p>Commander Orion, clad in armor polished to a mirror finish, bowed deeply upon her entrance. "Your Majesty." Lyravia's gesture invited him to rise. "Speak, Commander."</p><p>Orion's expression turned grave. "Yesterday, during the Festival of Luminaria, the sacred light within Kyrios' Abode flickered and died for a moment. Though brief, this anomaly has never occurred in our recorded history. Furthermore, some children were caught within Kyrios' Abode during this incident. I thought it prudent to inform you, Your Majesty."</p><p>"Summon these children to the palace. I would have them brought before me." Lyravia's brow furrowed, concern etched on her face.</p>