THE MARK'S WARNING
The woodland was illuminated by the moon's silvery radiance as it hung high in the nighttime sky. Iris's wrist hurt more and more, making it difficult for her to walk steadily. The brand burst with an unearthly brilliance, and she gripped her arm, teeth clenched. Even though it has burned before, it seemed stronger and more persistent tonight. It was as if the mark had a mind of its own, drawing her toward the Moonlit Clearing.
"Not right now," she whispered to herself as she stumbled over rough terrain and roots. But there was no use in resisting. The unrelenting force that was leading her eventually brought her to the clearing, where an odd energy was buzzing in the air.
The middle of the glade was lit by a shaft of moonlight, and a shimmering figure started to take
