chapter 34 you are mine

Elder Blackwood's eyes pierced the darkness, his presence commanding attention. Leo and Emily stood before him, their faces etched with contrasting emotions.

"To unite with Leo, you must prove your worth," Elder Blackwood declared, his voice low and mysterious. "Three trials await you, Emily. Success will solidify your position as future queen."

Emily's determination flared. "I'm ready."

Elder Blackwood's gaze lingered on Emily's resolute face. "The trials will test your courage, wisdom, and heart. Are you prepared to face the unknown?"

Leo's eyes narrowed, his jaw clenched.

"The first trial begins at dawn," Elder Blackwood announced, his voice dripping with an air of secrecy. "In the Heartwood Forest, where ancient magic whispers secrets to the wind."

Emily's heart quickened.

"What will I face?" she asked, her voice steady.

Elder Blackwood's smile hinted at hidden dangers. "You'll encounter shadows within, and without. Conquer your fears, and you'll emerge stronger."

Leo's fists clenched, his eyes burning with protectiveness.

"I won't let anything harm her," Leo vowed.

Elder Blackwood's gaze pinned Leo. "You'll observe, but not interfere. Emily's trials are hers alone."

As the elder's words faded, the room plunged into darkness.

Emily's breath caught. She felt Leo's gaze on her, a mix of concern and longing.

With a deep breath, Emily stepped forward, into the unknown.

The darkness swallowed her whole, leaving Leo with a haunting question:

What secrets lay hidden in the Heartwood Forest, waiting to test Emily's resolve?

Emily's nerves danced as she prepared for the trials. Her mind racing, she paced within her chamber.

Suddenly, a wispy figure materialized.

The witch's eyes gleamed. "Child, Take this."

A leather-bound book appeared in the witch's hand.

"This tome holds ancient secrets, magic to aid you in the trials."

Emily's fingers wrapped around the book, feeling its strange energy.

"Thank you," Emily whispered.

The witch vanished, leaving Emily stunned.

As Emily opened the book, Leo entered her chamber.

"Emily, don't die during the trial," Leo warned, his voice low. "You still owe me."

A peculiar sensation stirred in Leo's chest, but he dismissed it.

Emily's laughter was sweet, tantalizing.

She brushed a feather-light kiss against Leo's lips.

"I won't leave you for someone else. You're mine, for now."

Leo's speech faltered, his eyes wide.

Emily's laughter echoed, leaving Leo bewitched.

"I love the look I left on your face," Emily whispered, her smile mischievous.

Silently, Emily vowed: I'll make you love me, Leo.

As Emily departed, Leo's thoughts swirled.

What had just transpired?

The unfamiliar feeling in his chest lingered.

Leo shook his head, clearing the haze.

But the memory of Emily's kiss remained.

And the whisper: You're mine.