Killian
The forest breathed with life that night.
Every branch shimmered under the pale wash of moonlight; every leaf seemed to hum with the same nervous anticipation that thrummed through my veins. The Ether looked alive, rivers glowing faintly, fireflies hovering like sparks over water, the distant mountains whispering songs of blessing. It was the night of our coming-of-age ceremony.
And I, Killian, was standing at the edge of the clearing, heart hammering against my ribs, waiting for the Moon Goddess to decide my fate.
But deep down, I already knew.
Because she was there.
Lyra.
She stood at the heart of the circle, where the moonlight was brightest, wearing a gown white as frost, her dark hair tumbling loose like midnight rain. The soft glow of torches kissed her skin, and her e
