Chapter 4 Fire and Frost

Elira's days became filled with moon rituals, spellcasting, and sword drills-especially under Kael's instruction. He was harsh, but never cruel. When she failed, he picked her up. When she wept, he pretended not to see-but stayed nearby.

But just as she began to understand her powers, another visitor arrived at Crescent Keep.

Prince Riven of Frostmere.

With hair like snow and eyes like ice, Riven was calm where Kael was fire. He too had been sent to protect Elira-but he was part of a different prophecy.

"There are two heirs," Seris explained. "One of flame, one of frost. And only the Moonfire can bind or break them."

Elira found herself caught between them.

Kael challenged her.

Riven listened to her.

And both believed the fate of the realm rested in her hands.

Worse still, the Shadow Court was growing stronger-and its leader, the Shade Queen, had begun whispering to Elira in her dreams.

One night, drawn by a voice in the wind, Elira followed the silver path beyond the Keep. It led her to a cave pulsing with ancient energy.

Inside, she discovered a mural-thousands of years old-showing the Moonfire Heir standing beside the Shade Queen.

But in the image, they weren't enemies.

They were sisters.

Elira stumbled back, heart racing. Was it true? Could the villain she'd been taught to fear be... family?