The Hidden Hybrid’s Redemption
I drew a deep, steady breath, letting the freezing air fill my lungs, and brought my right hand down toward the molten lead.
The moment my skin hovered an inch above the liquid metal, the gold runes on my palm flared into a brilliant, blinding white. The heat from my hybrid core poured down my arm in a controlled, precise stream, striking the brass bowl. The lead didn't just pour; it vaporized into a dense, glowing stream that washed into the deep channels of the carved stone crest, filling the granite grooves with a shimmering, silver-gold inlay that bonded instantly to the mountain's bone.
A quiet, awe-struck murmur ran through the gathered masons and vanguard scouts.