Chapter

124

Aurora sat on a smooth, shimmering platform within the spirit realm, her body trembling from the weight of Solara's revelations. The glowing fragment of celestial energy hovered before her, its radiant light illuminating the shadows of doubt etched across her face. "How can I make a choice like this?" she whispered, her voice cracking. "How can I sacrifice my child's freedom?"

Cassian knelt beside her, his golden eyes fierce with determination. "We'll find another way. You're not alone in this, Aurora. We've defied the odds before, and we'll do it again."

The celestial light pulsed softly, and Solara's voice resonated through the chamber like a gentle tide. "The fragment will stabilize the Pact temporarily, but only if used wisely. It is not a solution-it is a reprieve."

Aurora reached out to the fragment, feeling its warmth envelop her fingers. The energy surged into her chest, and for a fleeting moment, she felt at peace. Her child's presence stirred within her, a faint pulse of reassurance that seemed to echo her resolve. Cassian rested his hand over hers. "We'll protect our family, no matter what. Let this be a reminder of what we're fighting for."

Solara's form dimmed, its light growing faint as the chamber began to shift. "The Lycan King seeks the Ecliptic Grove, the last untainted sacred site tied to the Pact. If he corrupts it, the balance will crumble, and your efforts will be in vain."

Aurora nodded, the fragment's energy steadying her even as fear gripped her heart. "We won't let him take it."

Solara's final words lingered in the air as a portal materialized before them. "Be swift, Luna. Time is not your ally."

Aurora and Cassian stepped through the portal and emerged into chaos.

Their group was under siege, shadow beasts tearing through the camp with feral fury. Nathan barked orders as wolves fought valiantly, but they were losing ground. Anica held a defensive line, her blade flashing as she cut down one beast after another. "Aurora!" Nathan's voice rose above the din. "We're being overrun!"

Cassian immediately charged into the fray, his blade slicing through the nearest shadow beast. Aurora gripped the fragment tightly, its light flaring as she summoned the Pact's power. The energy exploded outward, a wave of brilliance that sent the shadow beasts scattering into mist.

As the camp quieted, Aurora sank to her knees, her strength nearly gone. Cassian was by her side in an instant, his hands steadying her.noveldrama

"Are you okay?" he asked, worry etched across his face.

Aurora nodded weakly. "The fragment... it worked. But it's not enough. We have to move-now."

Anica approached, her face grim. "Solara mentioned the Ecliptic Grove. If the Lycan King's heading there, we need to beat him to it."

Nathan joined them, his expression dark. "The grove is deep within cursed territory. Even finding it will be a challenge."

Aurora looked at her team, determination hardening her gaze. "We don't have a choice. We leave at first light."