The echoes of footsteps within the Hall of the Jade Claw felt sharper and more intrusive than usual. This chamber, carved directly from a massive vein of deep-green jade at the very heart of the mountain, possessed acoustics capable of catching even the faintest whisper. Roland Sudrath stood in the center of the council circle, surrounded by the Dragon Elders whose faces were as cold and unyielding as ancient ice. Beside him, Rumina stood with a rigid back, though her hands were hidden within the folds of her gown, clutching her financial ledger as if it were the only tether she had to reality.
"So, you wish for us to believe that this sliver of translucent crystal can alter the very energy foundations of the world?" The voice belonged to Elder Oros, an ancient dragon with scales the color of rusted bronze, seated next to Prince Ignis. His eyes narrowed, scrutinizing the sample of purified mana crystal on the table with profound suspicion.
