Eli's mind reeled from the intensity of her encounter with Kaidën. His piercing gaze lingered in her thoughts.
As she walked home, the evening air seemed to vibrate with secrets.
"Eli, wait!" Rachel called out.
Rachel caught up, her expression serious.
"Eli, I need to tell you something," Rachel said.
"Kaidën isn't just any artist. He's from Aethereia."
"Aethereia?" Eli repeated.
Rachel nodded.
"A mystical realm. Ancient magic. Kaidën's family has protected our world for centuries."
Eli's eyes widened.
"You're saying Kaidën's...magical?"
Rachel's nod was barely perceptible.
"And you, Eli...you have a hidden heritage."
Eli's world tilted.
"What do you mean?"
Rachel's voice dropped to a whisper.
"Your ancestors were Aethereian. You carry their blood."
Eli stumbled backward.
"No...that's impossible."
Rachel's grip on her arm steadied her.
"Eli, your heart is more than shattered. It's awakening."
As Rachel vanished into the night, Eli's reality crumbled.
She faced Kaidën, her questions burning.
"Who am I, Kaidën?" Eli demanded.
Kaidën's eyes softened.
"You're the key to unlocking our worlds."
Eli's heart pounded.
"What do you mean?"
Kaidën's smile hinted at secrets.
"Your heritage holds the power to heal or destroy."
Eli's mind reeled.
"Destroy what?"
Kaidën's gaze locked onto hers.
"The darkness that's coming for us all."