Alera’s POV
I smiled a little after sharing everything with Lira. Moments like this reminded me of how close we used to be. But now, so much was happening at once, and it felt like we were barely holding on.
“You know, back when we still lived in our clan, you were the braver one,” Lira said, her voice soft yet firm. “I always knew you would do whatever was needed, no matter what. And I respect you for that. I don’t want you feeling uncertain just because things are changing so fast. You’re strong, Alera.”
Her words touched something deep within me, and I smiled more. We started talking about our clan—about how peaceful things used to be. For a moment, I wished I could see my parents again. But I knew that was impossible.
Back then, we were still so young, just learning the ways of our
