Eli's feet pounded the pavement, her heart racing.
Kaidën's shout echoed through her mind.
"Run, Eli!"
She darted through alleys, losing herself in the city's maze.
Suddenly, a hand grasped her arm.
"Eli, hide!" Kaidën whispered.
He pulled her into a hidden doorway.
Breathless, Eli gazed up at Kaidën.
"What now?" Eli asked.
Kaidën's eyes scanned their surroundings.
"This refuge is protected. Lyra's magic can't penetrate."
Eli's tension eased.
"For how long?" Eli asked.
Kaidën's expression turned grim.
"Until dawn. Then we must find the Ancient One."
Eli nodded.
"Tell me about the Ancient One," Eli said.
Kaidën's voice dropped to a whisper.
"A powerful being, ancient and wise. They hold the secret to breaking Lyra's curse."
Eli's determination grew.
"I'll do whatever it takes."
Kaidën's smile hinted at pride.
"Together, we'll defeat Lyra."
As they settled into the refuge, Eli's thoughts turned to her past.
"Kaidën?" Eli said.
"Yes?"
"How did my ancestors end up in the mortal realm?"
Kaidën's gaze softened.
"A great sacrifice. Your ancestors protected Aethereia's secrets."
Eli's curiosity deepened.
"What secrets?"
Kaidën's eyes locked onto hers.
"The secrets of the heart."