The journey to the Hollow of Stars was more treacherous than any of them anticipated. The mountain paths twisted like serpent spines, icy winds biting at exposed skin, and the magic in the air thickened with each mile they ascended. But within Ember, a light pulsed steady and strong. The unborn quadruplets, now nearing their fourth month of gestation, were growing at an unnatural pace—and with them, their magic.
As they reached the midway point of the climb, Ember paused beneath an ancient pine, her breath catching. A ripple of magic burst from her belly, sending a warm wave across the frostbitten air. Aiden rushed to her side, followed by Maeva, whose eyes widened as she sensed the power.
“They’re syncing,” Maeva whispered, placing her hand gently over Ember’s. “They’re reaching out to
