We walked toward the path, leaving the white orchard behind.
But we didn't make it far.
Luna reappeared.
Not fading this time. Not translucent. Solid and furious and burning with divine power that made the air itself bend.
She materialized directly in our path, blocking the way forward.
"You think you can simply leave?" Her voice shook the ground. "After what you've done? After corrupting my garden, severing my anchor, freeing my prisoners?"
I swayed on my feet, exhaustion making everything feel distant. Astro's arm around my waist was the only thing keeping me upright.
"They weren't prisoners," I said quietly. "They were victims."
"They made choices. Paid prices. That's how trials work."
"No." I forced myself to stand straighter, to meet her eyes despite wanting to collapse. "That's how torture works. Trials should test, not trap."
Luna's expression twisted. "You dare lecture me? A goddess who's maintained these realms for millennia?"
"Yes."
