Chapter 28 - The Moonlight Ceremony

Aryana and Veloria strolled around the palace in silence as darkness fell, being cautious not to be noticed. They slipped through secret tunnels (small corridors constructed long ago for escape or clandestine movement) that only a few members of the royal family knew existed. They moved deeper into the center of the castle until they came to an unimpressive stone wall, where the torches surrounding the walls flickered softly. Aryana pressed a hidden lever with a deft hand, and the wall creaked open to reveal a secret stairwell that curved down into the ground. The Moonlight Ceremony, The Moonveiled Claws would congregate in secret during that period, attracted by the moon force that permeated their blood. Aryana had spent the previous three days getting ready for this important event, which was more than just a get-together. Aryana could sense the ancient energy in the stones surrounding her, throbbing softly in preparation for the night's rite, as the air grew colder as they desc