Someone's hand touched my forehead gently. I turned my head toward the voice.
"It's okay, Athena. You're awake."
Lira's face hovered over me, worry etched deep in her eyes. Relief flooded me just seeing her. "Lira... what happened?"
"You fainted after that... that thing with your… wolf," she whispered. "Everyone was stunned."
I groaned, struggling to recall what happened. The duel. Kaelin. The wolf. "I... I couldn't use my magic... but then the moon..."
Lira nodded slowly. "We saw it too. Your eyes. And your wolf... it was like a beast came to life. It scared everyone."
I clenched my fists, frustration and exhaustion swirling inside me. "I don't understand. I didn't want anyone to see that."
"Neither did I," Lira said softly. "But you can't hide what you are. Maybe it's time to accept it."
I shook my head, pain flashing behind my eyes. "If they knew what I really am… they'd never accept me."
Lira's grip tightened. "You're not alone, Athena. I believe in you."
