The air in the ritual chamber was heavy with incense and magic. Elyra sat cross-legged in the center of a glowing circle, her small form illuminated by the shimmering lines of the Celestial Pact etched into the ground. Aurora stood to the side, her heart pounding as Selene prepared to begin the ritual. Cassian lingered at the doorway, his expression guarded but attentive. "Are you ready, Elyra?" Selene asked gently, her voice carrying an undertone of caution.
Elyra nodded, her silver hair catching the glow of the markings around her. "I think so," she said, her voice small but steady.
Selene raised her arms, murmuring an incantation that caused the room to hum with energy. The lines of the Pact brightened, wrapping around Elyra like tendrils of light. Aurora watched as her daughter's expression shifted from calm to curiosity, then to discomfort. "What's happening?" Elyra asked, her voice trembling.
Selene's brow furrowed. "The bond is revealing its truths. Stay focused, little one. You're safe."
The light around Elyra intensified, revealing flickering images: shadowed figures writhing in darkness, remnants of the Lycan King's corrupted energy that seemed to reach for her. Aurora gasped as she saw Elyra's glow fight against the shadows, pushing them back. "Selene, what is this?" Cassian demanded, stepping closer.noveldrama
"It's the remnants of his influence," Selene said grimly. "The Pact is trying to purge them, but Elyra's connection is amplifying the reaction."
Suddenly, a surge of energy exploded outward, shattering the glowing circle and knocking Selene to the ground. Aurora rushed forward, catching Elyra as she slumped over, her small body trembling.
"Mommy?" Elyra whispered, her voice weak.
"I'm here," Aurora said, cradling her tightly. "You're safe now."
Selene rose to her feet, her face pale. "This confirms it," she said. "Her bond is unique-far more powerful than we realized. But it comes with danger. Her role as a vessel will demand more strength than we ever imagined."
Aurora met Cassian's gaze, her heart sinking. The weight of Elyra's destiny pressed down on her like a stone, heavier than ever before.