All Chapters of Eternal Embers: Chapter 11 - Chapter 12

On a crisp November morning, the inaugural assembly of the new Ember Circle convened in the renovated great hall of Montrose and Vale Estates its walls hung with Isabelle’s sketches from Prague and Bellford, each a testament to rediscovered history. Representatives from art, academia, and clergy gathered in a wide semicircle; at its center, a brazier held a single silver blue ember that pulsed like a heartbeat. Isabelle and Alexander stood before the assembly. Alexander spoke first: “We have walked through flame and shadow to stand here today, not as heirs bound by ancient oaths, but as stewards of knowledge and compassion.” He lifted the ember in a ceremonial ladle. “By fire’s light and heart’s conviction, we dedicate this Ember Circle anew.” Isabelle followed, voice resonant. “Here, we pledge to share our discoveries openly, to foster creativity and inquiry, and to honor every voice seen and unseen that has shaped our path.” She tipped the ember into the brazier; it glowed, harmon