Chapter 45: The order of the moon (part 2)
Ava's POV:
Eirlys' words hung in the air like a challenge. "The ritual... what did it entail?"
Lyrien's eyes clouded, memories flooding back. "My family made a pact with the Order of the Moon to protect our kingdom. We offered our bloodline as collateral."
Aethera's expression turned grave. "The ritual bound your family's magic to the Order's, creating a powerful link."
Eirlys nodded. "But the Order of the White Oak corrupted the ritual, using it to fuel their dark magic."
I shuddered. "And now they want me and my child."
Eirlys' jaw set. "Not if we stop the Great Convergence. Our plan involves—"
"Wait," Kael interrupted. "What makes you think Ava's safe here?"
Eirlys smiled. "This village is protected by ancient wards, crafted by the Order of the Moon. Ava's magic resonates with the wards, strengthening them."
Days passed, and I grew restless on bed rest. Aethera visited twice more, guiding me through training sessions.
Aethera taught me to balance my magic with the elements: earth, air, water, and fire. I struggled to harmonize the opposing forces.
"You're progressing, Ava," Aethera said. "But control your emotions, lest the elements consume you."
Aethera instructed me in crafting illusions to deceive and disorient enemies. I conjured convincing deceptions, but Aethera cautioned.
"Illusions are fragile, Ava. Trust your instincts, not just your magic."
As I practiced, Lyrien and Eirlys strategized with Kael.
"The Order of the Moon's plan," Eirlys explained, "involves disrupting the celestial alignment using ancient artifacts. We need Ava's magic to amplify the artifacts' power."
Kael nodded. "I'll retrieve the artifacts. Lyrien, you'll accompany me."
Lyrien's eyes locked onto mine. "I'll protect Ava and our future."
With each passing day, my magic grew stronger, but my restlessness intensified. I longed to join the fight.