Deep within the moss-laced sanctuary of the Nullcarver Hollow, time seemed to slow.
Here, beneath the hollowed mountain crowned by bioluminescent vines and breathing stone, stood the sacred Seven Statues of the Juggernauts—towering monoliths carved from obsidian-like ore, each exuding a distinct presence.
Before them, drawn into a massive circular formation inscribed into the ground—the Circle of Resonance—sat Kaelen, Kelvin, Morris, Lila, Guinevere, and Ethan. Each cross-legged. Each silent. Each drawing breath in rhythm with the pulsing heart of the Hollow.
The Circle shimmered faintly. No mana flowed here. Only Qi—raw, ancient, life-bound energy that predated the ages of spellcraft. It wasn't granted. It was earned. Forged within.
Naena stood off to the side, her expression carved from stone yet her eyes sharp and unwavering. Her robes of barkweave and root-thread rustled faintly, arms crossed as she watched the group begin their resonance attempt.
