Two “Suffering is never pointless. There is always a lesson to be learned, growth to be had, and wisdom to be passed on. Pain is the necessary pruning to bring the blossom of character. Hardship is often borne of a person’s own flawed nature, and the suffering reminds them of their flaws. This, too, is necessary so that pride will not take root. Pride comes before the fall, but it’s not only the proud that suffer. Anyone near also becomes collateral damage.” ~The Great Luna “Perizada, open your eyes.” The Great Luna’s voice was firm, yet gentle. Peri obeyed and found herself back in the present. She stood on the cliff with Serapha and Nissa. Peri looked at Nissa and saw tears running down her friend’s face. She reached over, took Nissa’s hand, and gave it a tight squeeze. When she felt

