The sounds of snapping twig and rusting leaves echoed in the forest. Then-
A scream .
Shrill, sharp, inhuman.
Zalria stumbled, her breath hitching." I think it's still after us," she panted , her eyes wide
In the 🌕 moonlight.
"I feel it too," lyrien muttered, his golden eyes narrowing ." Something ancient and violent."
His disheveled white hair shimmered under the moonlight, the forest breathed upon them, unnaturally still.
"Whatever it is,it wants blood," he added, stepping in front of zalria. His protective stance made her heart flutter despite the fear clawing at her chest.
She couldn't help but smile faintly, he was growing- stonger, braver.... Manlier. Even now, his presence made her feel safe. That alone warmed her in the cold night air.
"Stop smiling and focus!" Nathaniel snapped," except you want to be midnight snack!"
As they suddenly sprinted forward, the air suddenly felt lighter They found themselves standing before a bustling, glowing market. Creatures of all kinds—faes, vampires, werewolves—mingled under hanging lanterns and bright banners.
"What… is this place?" Zalria whispered.
"A neutral realm," Lyrian said, his voice tight. "Witches and demons aren't welcome here. We shouldn't linger."
But it was too late. People had noticed.
"Are they from the demon clans?"
"Those eyes…"
Zalria shrank back as whispers surrounded them. Then—
A soft voice broke through. "You look like travelers."
A young lady stepped forward,she was about their age, she had sharp green eyes. and raven black hair. her presence calm and alluring. She wore a velvet cloak and carried a quiet confidence. Her eyes lingered a little too long on Lyrian.
"I'm Lyra," she smiled. "Come. You look like you need rest."
Zalria immediately bristled. "We're fine."
But Lyrian was already stepping forward, intrigued. "You live here?"
Lyra smiled. "I help manage the inn. Come. A warm bed and hot meal won't kill you."
Nathaniel shrugged. "She's got a point."
Inside the inn, Lyra served them roasted meat, soft bread, and sweet herbal tea. She moved around the room like a dream, her laughter soft, her gaze always circling back to Lyrian.
Zalria sat stiffly, stabbing her food. She watched Lyra lean in close to Lyrian, brushing something off his sleeve."Oh, you have moonweed on you," Lyra said sweetly. "You know, that only grows deep in the shadow forest. You must be brave."
Lyrian chuckled. "Lucky, more like."
Zalria couldn't take it anymore. "He didn't go there alone."
Lyra turned, her smile pleasant—but sharp. "Of course not. Still… he carries the air of a leader."
Zalria's throat tightened. She forced a smile. "He's not as charming as he looks."
Lyrian raised a brow at her but said nothing.
Later that night, as they settled into the room, Zalria threw her cloak on the bed with force. "She was practically crawling over you."
Lyrian looked amused. "Are you jealous?"
"No," she snapped. "I just don't trust strangers."
He stepped closer, a teasing smile playing at his lips. "You don't have to be jealous, Zalria."
"I'm not—" she started, then froze as he brushed a loose strand of hair from her face.
"I only see you," he whispered.
Her breath caught.
lyrien knew better than to make zalria worried or jealous, he knew zalria, she could summon her mother right here if she wishes.
Lyra stood outside the door listening with, a mischievous smile lingered on her lips.
Finally, she heaved...