The Moon Rises

Aria's boots clicked on the ancient stone stairs as she descended into the sanctum beneath the Moonstone Gate. The air shimmered around her; cold yet warm, as if alive. Rael followed quietly, and Moira's breath was the softest next to him.

"You sure you should not be up there?" Aria asked Moira in a low voice. "The battle is starting."

Moira's violet eyes glowed. "They have Elder Vaughn and the Alphas on the surface. You.. you need me here."

Rael shrugged. "Division of labor. I am here because I am your guidance spirit and have no experience in fighting rogue wolves or any other beasts."

Aria did not give a reply. She focused on the pendant in her palm. It pulsed, softly, rhythmically; like a heartbeat.

Suddenly, the walls stirred. Silver runes brightened. Crystal pillars hummed, roots glowed. A gentle pulse of energy swept through Aria. It lifted her hair, clothing, cloak.

She collapsed to her knees. Her vision blurred.