The Fractured Accord

Location: Vault of Knives, Iskarra — Hidden ChamberTime: Just after midnight, beneath the city's pulse

The keeper stepped from the shadows, the glint of silver edging their dark robes catching the flicker of the blue archive flames. Their face was partly obscured by a hood, but the sharpness in their eyes was unmistakable.

This was Councilor Maelor — one of the five masters, and among the most enigmatic.

A Quiet Confession

They spoke low, almost to themselves:

"The Accord is a broken circle. A promise frayed at the edges."

The scholar, still clutching the glowing journals, watched carefully.

"There are those among us who would see the Crown reforged. Not to protect the world, but to reshape it."

Maelor's voice hardened:

"Power like that corrupts even the purest intent. It breeds betrayal... and war."

The Rift Within

"The Circle that forged the Crown shattered centuries ago.And the Accord? It carries the same wounds.Some masters seek control. Others seek peace.And both will spill blood to achieve it."

Maelor's gaze flicked to the journals.

"You've stirred the hornet's nest.Some will want to silence you.Others will want to use you."

A Warning

"You should choose your allies carefully.Because the enemy is not only beyond these walls…It lives within."

They stepped closer, lowering their voice:

"The traitor's shadow lingers in the highest ranks.And soon, the Accord itself may fracture beyond repair."

A Final Glance

Maelor's hood slipped back, revealing a thin scar tracing from temple to jawline.

"Knowledge is power.But power demands sacrifice.Are you prepared for the cost?"

The scholar met the gaze without flinching.

"I'm already paying it."