FLASHBACK: TWO YEARS AGO, EVERGREEN ISLE
The battle's echoes had faded into a mournful silence, leaving behind the scorched remains of what was once a vibrant village. Victory, though achieved, had come at an insurmountable cost. The villagers who had once celebrated Lyra as their savior now turned their backs on her with collective disdain.
As dawn's first light illuminated the smoldering wreckage of the village, Lyra wandered through the remnants of her former home. The central square, once bustling with life, now lay in ruins—strewn with debris and blackened by fire.
"Morning, Lyra," came a voice from behind her. It was Licorn, a former friend of her father, his face etched with a scowl that spoke volumes. "What you did last night... it's…"
Lyra turned to face him, weariness etched into her features. "What? I saved everyone," she replied, her voice weary yet defiant.
