The air inside the great hall seemed to freeze completely in that instant.
Aiden took a deep breath and forced down the storm of emotions rising in his heart.
He slowly raised his hand. In his palm, the space around it rippled like water.
Buzz-
An ancient key appeared out of thin air, floating in the void. Strange laws of cause and effect flowed across its surface, and a faint purple-gold divine light shone from it.
The Key of Destiny!
This mysterious key had been with him since the beginning of his rise. Now, it seemed to have sensed something and began to let out a clear ringing sound.
"Kelsey, close your eyes. Do not resist my power."
Aiden's voice was gentle, but it carried the unquestionable authority of a god.
Kelsey obediently closed her eyes. Her long eyelashes trembled slightly in the candlelight.
Aiden brought two fingers together like a blade. Divine power gathered around them as he guided the Key of Destiny and slowly pointed it toward Kelsey's forehead.
