The first thing Aria noticed was the smell.
Earthy, rich, and wild. Unlike anything in the Shadow Moon territory.
She blinked against the sunlight filtering through tall pine trees, her head pounding from the events of the night.
Selene stirred weakly, her voice warm and comforting.
We’re safe… for now.
Aria pushed herself up, her body still trembling. The silver glow from the night before had faded, leaving only a faint warmth under her skin. She looked around, confusion and awe battling in her chest.
The terrain was unlike any forest she had ever known. Towering trees stretched endlessly into the sky, their branches entwining to form natural arches over a hidden valley. Crystal-clear streams cut through the land, and massive stone platforms rose like monuments in the distance.
And
