KELLY THOMPSON'S POV

As we walked back towards the palace together, my strides matched his, every inch the Luna Queen ready to defend her realm with tooth and claw. Our hands found each other's, a silent vow renewed amidst the shadows of looming conflict.

The twilight cast elongated shadows across the training grounds as Jason and I settled upon a weathered stone bench, our breaths now calm after the day's exertions. The air was cool, whispering through the trees that bordered the palace, their ...