CELESTE
Walking beside Knox into the Den felt surreal. My legs were still weak from the explosion, from nearly dying, and from every reckless thing I had done. The medics had cleared me, but my pulse hadn’t settled. Knox kept surprising me; his loyalty and refusal to demand an explanation I wasn’t ready to give. As we stepped into the chamber, every conversation inside was cut short. Their faces softened when they saw me.
Elder Mirella exhaled sharply. “By the Goddess… Luna Celeste.”
I stiffened. I felt Knox look down at me briefly.
The council rose slightly as Knox and I approached. “Luna Celeste,” they greeted. “We are grateful to see you on your feet.”
I swallowed as Knox pulled out the chair beside his own at the head of the table and waited until I sat. They all followed suit, se
