"We should return to the sanctuary," Uncle Mateo said softly. "Those patrols could be heading this way."
As we made our way back through the darkened forest, I found myself walking between Maison and Jackson, their protective presence both comforting and grounding. The moonflowers continued to bloom in my wake, marking our path with luminous white blossoms.
"That went well," Luna Mara observed, breaking the thoughtful silence. "Lady Vivienne's support will be crucial in the days ahead."
"She knew me," I said, still marvelling at the connection. "Really knew me, from before."
"Your godmother was your mother's shadow," Uncle Mateo confirmed. "Where Queen Isobel went, Lady Vivienne followed. They were inseparable from childhood."
I absorbed this, treasuring each new piece of information
