Chapter 64

**An Ultimatum from Lanom**

The council chamber in Lanom buzzed with an ominous energy. Every face in the vast, marble room was drawn and somber, shadows cast by the dim, cold light flickering over rows of stone-faced figures, robed and silent. Sariel, the head of the council, stood at the center, his gaze sweeping across the assembly.

"The mortal girl is becoming a risk to our realm," Sariel began, his voice a deep rumble that silenced the murmurs echoing through the chamber. "Athena's connection to Lucifer is disrupting the balance. The Watchers have reported her repeated, unchecked access to Egnand, as well as her growing bond with Lucifer."

A murmur went through the council, quiet but insistent. Sariel let it fade before continuing.