Ancient.
Wise.
Iva’s breath caught as the woman’s sharp eyes settled on her, studying her with an intensity that felt like it peeled back every layer of her being.
Caleb inclined his head respectfully.
“Elder Tamisa.”
The name alone carried weight, and Iva instinctively lowered her gaze slightly, her heart hammering in her chest.
The elder’s lips curved into a faint, knowing smile before she stepped closer.
“You arrived just in time, as the moon is up in the sky already. So… this is the girl.”
Her voice was calm, yet it echoed with authority, and before Iva could react, the woman reached out, taking her hand gently—but firmly.
The moment their skin touched, Iva felt a surge of energy ripple through her, ancient and powerful, making her inhale sharply.
“Welcome, my child,” Elder T
