*Kryzen*
The moment the words "Luna of Embervale" echoed through the air, Briella's body tensed beside me and then wavered like a sapling in a storm. Her small frame threatened to crumple, so I wrapped my arms around her without hesitation, holding her upright. My hands gripped her firmly but subtly so no one would dare question her strength.
"Kryzen, what's happening?" she whispered, her voice trembling as much as her knees.
"Steady, Briella," I murmured back, keeping my voice calm despite the rapid drumming of my own heart. "You're safe. They're just excited to see you."
Her bright green eyes were saucers as they scanned the sea of faces before us. The crowd outside the healing center was larger than I had expected, each person's gaze locked on her with an admiration that bordered on reverence. I could sense her confusion, feeling it radiating off her in waves.
"How did they all know I'd be here?" She blinked rapidly, trying to process the scene unfolding around us.
