As the first rays of dawn crept through the thin curtains of Lyra’s cottage, soft light danced across the pile of scrolls and old books cluttering the tables and floors. After a restless night, she awoke, filled with a mix of excitement and fear.

Lysandra sat quietly by the fireplace, her eyes focused, as if she had anticipated the coming storm in Lyra’s life for a long time. Lyra, still trying to steady her breath, watched the old woman with suspicion and curiosity. Who was she really? ...