Amara stood at the center of the clearing. Tonight was her first Trial by Moonlight, the test that would prove whether she belonged or be sent away.
The gray‑bearded elder raised a hand. "Your trial is twofold: courage and control. Face the wild and master your fear." His voice echoed in the hush.
Amara swallowed. Behind her, Lucian's silent gaze hot at her back. She glanced at him; he offered a curt nod before turning to join the council.
Drawing a steadying breath, she stepped forward. At her signal, the gate swung open—and the first trial emerged: a pack of wolves, leashed but restless, circling with low growls.
Amara's knees buckled as the nearest wolf lunged forward. She remembered Lucian's words: Balance strength with restraint.
She met the animal's silver eyes, voice soft but firm: "Easy… I'm not your enemy." The wolf hesitated, sniffed, then backed off.
One by one, she approached each wolf, placing a palm on its head or shoulder, mirroring the calm confidence she'd seen Lucian display. When the last wolf bowed its head, a councilman nodded in approval.
Next came control: a hanging metal pendulum, swinging fast. Amara was instructed to step onto a narrow beam beneath it, walking its length without flinching as the pendulum edged closer.
Mud clung to her boots. Her breath caught as the metal disk whooshed past. One slip… one misstep… and she'd fail.
She steadied her shoulders, lifted her chin, and walked. Each swing felt like a heartbeat, each footfall a choice. At the end, she paused, arms outstretched, then turned and returned—victory tighter than any embrace.
The council members exchanged nods. Lucian stepped forward. He offered her a water flask with uncharacteristic gentleness.
"You did well," he said, voice low. No mockery. No coldness.
Amara met his gaze, surprised. "Thank you."
He hesitated, then added, quieter: "I… needed to know you'd fight for yourself."
Later, as the council dispersed, Amara found Lucian leaning against a stone pillar. The adrenaline still pulsed through her veins.
"I saw you," she began. "You looked… proud."
Lucian's jaw brushed the torchlight. "I protect you because no one else here would. I would always stand for you." His voice cracked only slightly.
Amara's breath caught. "Why me?"
He turned, eyes warm, filled with a look she didn't understand Because you are mine to protect. I won't let anything happen to you."
The words hung between them soft, fierce, and utterly undeniable.