The night air was cool against Arin's skin as he stood on the balcony, staring at the distant horizon. His mind was still adjusting to the celestial bond with Celestia. It was unlike anything he had ever felt—an ever-present warmth, a whisper of power beneath his skin.
A soft rustle behind him made him turn.
It was Evelyn.
She hesitated before stepping closer. "You should rest. Tomorrow will be—"
"Different," Arin finished for her. "I know."
She sighed. "I won't pretend I understand what just happened between you and Celestia. But… I just don't want you to lose yourself in all this power."
Arin gave her a small smile. "I'm still me, Evelyn."
She looked away, folding her arms. "I hope so."
A flicker of movement caught his eye.
Lilith.
She was leaning against the doorway, her usual smirk in place. "Oh, don't mind me. I just love watching moments like these."
Evelyn shot her a glare. "Do you ever not eavesdrop?"
"Not when it's this entertaining," Lilith quipped, stepping forward. "Besides, Celestia is waiting for Arin. Something about 'completing the ritual' or whatever."
Evelyn stiffened. "Ritual?"
Arin frowned. "She didn't mention a ritual before."
Lilith's grin widened. "Maybe she wanted to keep it a surprise?"
Evelyn muttered something under her breath and turned to Arin. "Be careful."
Arin nodded and made his way inside.
---
Celestia was waiting in the grand hall, bathed in soft golden light. She looked up as he entered, her expression calm yet unreadable.
"You came," she said.
"You called," he replied.
She stepped closer, the golden glow around her flickering slightly. "The celestial bond is formed, but it is not yet complete. There is… one final step."
Arin tilted his head. "And that is?"
Celestia's lips curved into the faintest of smiles. "A vow. One that binds us together completely."
The room felt smaller, the air charged with something unspoken.
Arin swallowed. "A vow?"
Celestia nodded. "It is not forced. It is a choice."
His heartbeat quickened. He could feel her presence, like a melody intertwining with his own existence.
And in that moment, he knew—this was more than just power.
This was something else.
And he had to decide.
[TO BE CONTINUED...]