Morning did not feel the same.
It was quieter.
But heavier.
Not with uncertainty
With consequence.
Lyra stood before the council chamber doors, her posture steady, her breathing controlled.
Today was not about being accepted.
It was about being recognized.
Kael stood beside her.
Close enough that she could feel the quiet pull of their bond, steady and grounding.
“Once we walk in,” he said, his voice low,
“they won’t just see you.”
A pause.
“They will measure you.”
Lyra didn’t look at him.
“Then they should look carefully.”
A faint shift crossed his expression.
Approval.
The doors opened.
The room fell silent instantly.
Every head turned.
Every gaze locked onto them
and then
onto her.
They entered together.
Not one leading.
Not one following.
Equal.
Lyra felt it
