~The Thirteenth Year~

EIRA

I was already awake, sitting at the small table by the window, going over patrol rosters while the house stayed quiet. Thirteen years ago, I had labored through that same hour with blood on my hands and Elrich refusing to leave my side.

A knock sounded at the door.

“Come in,” I said.

Ivy stepped inside, her posture careful. “The elders have sent word. Again.”

I set the papers down. “About the ceremony.”

“Yes.”

I nodded. “Tell them I’ll meet ...