CHAPTER 24: Foreign Paths and New Power
603 Words
Lyra and Astrid set out before dawn. Lyra’s mind was filled with images of Alexander as Lyra’s pregnant belly journeyed toward the unknown in the direction Alexander had once indicated at the Temple.
Astrid led them through dark, misty forest paths, paths dangerous even for a wolf. Every foreign trail Lyra trod showed how deeply the Witches' Coven’s power had spread. Despite Lyra's pregnancy, Lyra's every step was fueled by Lyra's unshakeable love for Alexander.
"Why is this path to the Shadowed Tower unknown to the wolves?" Lyra asked, her voice anxious.
Astrid turned to Lyra. Astrid’s brown fur was almost invisible in the misty forest. "Because wolves only perceive magic through strength and scent, Moon Whisper. Witches move by energy flow. These paths exist in the shadows of their power networks."
Astrid approached Lyra. "Before the Witches, you must learn to control your power. Your baby’s shield is your greatest defense. But that shield can also be your weakness."
Lyra placed her hands on her abdomen. "My weakness?"
"Yes. Maintaining the shield drains you. To rescue Alexander, you must learn to use a portion of your power for attack," Astrid said. "Your power is not just for healing. You can also destroy."
Astrid stopped Lyra and sat facing Lyra. Astrid touched the seal on Lyra’s neck. "Give me a portion of your power. I will show you how to use it against the Witches’ magic."
Lyra hesitated. Giving power to someone other than Alexander... this was against Lyra's nature. But Lyra needed time to save Alexander.
Lyra closed her eyes and channeled the silver flow of the Moon Whisper to Astrid. Astrid's eyes widened in surprise. Astrid sensed that Lyra's power was much purer and stronger than expected.
Astrid channeled the power back to Lyra. "Now," Astrid whispered. "Transform the silver into black, pure rage. Use the fury you feel toward those who want your baby."
Lyra visualized the image of Alexander suffering in her mind. That rage was the ancient fury Lyra had carried for seven years, born from Alexander's betrayal. The silver light in Lyra's hand instantly transformed into a dark, smoky black.
Astrid smiled. "This is the shadow side of the Moon Whisper. You can only repel the Witches' fireballs with this power."
Just then, three Witches appeared on the path ahead. In their hands were throbbing, purple energy spheres aimed at Lyra and Astrid. This was the second attack from the Witches' Coven.
"Alpha Mate," one of the Witches hissed, her voice cold and mocking. "Grand Sorceress Seraphina awaits you. Surrender, or we will take your child’s power by force."
Lyra did not look at Astrid. Lyra's eyes glowed with pure rage. While maintaining the shield around her belly, Lyra hurled the black-silver energy sphere in her hand toward the Witches.
The Witches' purple spheres collided with Lyra's black-silver energy. The explosion tore down the trees in the forest. Lyra saw how destructive her newfound power was.
Lyra’s attack repelled the Witches. However, Lyra’s body shook from the double effort. Lyra immediately shifted back to human form and collapsed onto the ground.
"Lyra!" Astrid yelled, rushing anxiously to Lyra's side.
Even with her eyes half-closed, Lyra pressed her hand to her belly. "I'm fine... just... so tired."
The Witches saw that Lyra’s power was nearly spent. They took a few more steps forward.
Lyra opened her eyes and whispered with her last strength: "I have to find the path to Alexander."
- Writer
