*Kryzen*

The moment the words "Luna of Embervale" echoed through the air, Briella's body tensed beside me and then wavered like a sapling in a storm. Her small frame threatened to crumple, so I wrapped my arms around her without hesitation, holding her upright. My hands gripped her firmly but subtly so no one would dare question her strength.

"Kryzen, what's happening?" she whispered, her voice trembling as much as her knees.

"Steady, Briella," I murmured back, ...