Lyra's eyes fluttered open, and she was met with an unfamiliar ceiling. She sat up, rubbing her temples, trying to remember how she got there. The last thing she recalled was Kaida's warning about the Shadow Weaver's minions and then... everything went black.
She looked around, taking in her surroundings. She was in a small, cozy room with stone walls and a fireplace crackling in the corner. A warm glow emanated from the flames, casting a comforting light on the space.
"Ah, you're awake," a soft voice said.
Lyra turned to see Kaida sitting in a chair beside her bed, watching her with an unreadable expression.
"Where am I?" Lyra asked, her voice still groggy.
"You're in my home, in the Dragon's Spine mountains," Kaida replied, her voice low and soothing. "You're safe here. My kin have protected this place for centuries."
Lyra's memories began to return, and she recalled the encounter in the forest. "What happened?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
"You were injured during our escape from the minions," Kaida explained. "I brought you here to tend to your wounds. You've been asleep for a day."
Lyra's eyes widened. "A day? How did you—"
"I have my ways," Kaida said with a hint of a smile. "You're a Moonwhisper, and your magic is strong. But you're also vulnerable to the Shadow Weaver's influence. We need to be careful."
As Kaida spoke, Lyra noticed the intricate patterns on the walls, glowing with a soft blue light. "What are these markings?" she asked, her fingers tracing the symbols.
"Those are protective wards," Kaida said. "They keep the Shadow Weaver's darkness at bay. This place has been shielded for centuries, but we can't stay here forever."
Lyra's gaze met Kaida's, and for a moment, they just looked at each other. Lyra felt a spark of connection, but she pushed it aside, focusing on the situation.
"What do you mean?" Lyra asked, her voice firm. "What's happening with the Shadow Weaver?"
Kaida's expression turned serious. "The Shadow Weaver seeks to exploit your clan's magic for her own gain. She's been gathering forces, and her power grows by the day. We need to get you to a safe place, where you can learn to control your magic and protect yourself."
Lyra's mind reeled with questions, but before she could ask any, Kaida stood up.
"Let's get you dressed," Kaida said. "We have a long journey ahead of us."
As Lyra got out of bed, she felt a sense of determination wash over her. She was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, as long as Kaida was by her side.