Book Two – Chapter 12
The Heart Tree's Judgment
The Forest Queen stood beneath the vast branches of the Heart Tree.
For a long moment, no one spoke.
The forest itself seemed to hold its breath.
Sunlight filtered through emerald leaves, painting shifting patterns across the ground.
The Queen's gaze rested on me, calm but searching.
"You carry the Moon Goddess's blessing."
Her voice was gentle, yet every word echoed through the clearing.
"But blessings alone do not change the world."
I inclined my head respectfully.
"I know."
Her eyes shifted to Cassiel.
"So..."
"The last king walks free."
Cassiel stepped forward, stopping several paces away.
"I do."
The Forest Queen studied him in silence.
"I remember the young man who planted moon lilies beside my rivers."
A faint smile
