Chapter 200

THIRD PERSON’S POV The chamber fell silent the moment the ancient stone doors slammed shut behind us. The runes carved into the walls flared to life, sealing us—and Olivia—inside. A palpable thrum of power filled the air as the threshold locked tight, every exit sealed by invisible warding. We were contained now. Olivia turned and faced the coven, wings of fire flickering at her back. Each pulsing feather glowed orange-gold, like embers alive with intent. The cavern’s shadows danced across their faces, dancing in time with the flicker of her phoenix magic. The air tasted like smoke and rising ash. They froze. When Olivia’s fiery wings unfurled in the dim light of the chamber—feathers licking with flame, stretching outward like living embers—every witch’s breath caught. Their reactions were visceral, discordant, but unanimous in shock and dread. The aging witch with silver hair stumbled backward, fingertips grazing ancient runes carved into the wall. Her voice shook as she whispered, “I