High Priest Valen faced a situation unprecedented in three millennia of cult history. The Night Dragon's presence had introduced a variable never accounted for in the ancient texts or prophecies. Amber light fluctuated around the central platform as the Accelerated Convergence destabilized, geometric patterns warping under the influence of the Meister bond.
"Reinforce the draconic barrier," he commanded, ritual-scarred hands moving with practiced precision to adjust the convergence patterns. "The beast must be contained until integration completes."
Eight elite cultists channeled more sacrificial energy into the barrier, amber light intensifying against Dudu's relentless assault. The dragon's obsidian scales absorbed much of this energy, but even his extraordinary determination had limits. Golden eyes narrowed as he assessed the strengthened defenses, calculating rather than merely reacting.
