Kyran Pov
I left the pack house hours before midnight because I needed time to prepare everything properly. The spirit cave was deep in the mountain and difficult to reach. The path was steep and dangerous, especially in the dark.
But I had been there before when I stole the moonstone. I knew the way even without light to guide me.
I carried a bag full of supplies. The broken pieces of the moonstone, a ceremonial knife. Everything I would need for the ritual.
The forest was quiet as I walked.
It felt like the whole world was holding its breath, waiting to see what would happen.
"This has to work," I said out loud. "We do not get another chance."
I reached the mountain and found the hidden entrance to the cave. The vines had grown back over it since my last visit. I cut through them quickly and squeezed inside.
