Lia

The ground beneath us pulsed like it had a heartbeat. Everything shimmered—air, light, even the trees, like the entire forest was holding its breath.

Then the Spiritborn turned toward me.

“Lia Brown. Your trial is first.”

My stomach tightened, but I didn’t flinch. I just nodded. “Okay.”

The guys all turned toward me at once—four matching looks of worry in very different flavors.

Matt stepped forward. “Wait—first? Why her?”

“I’m not surprised,” Jesse said quietly. “She’s the reason we’re here.”

Rain made a noise like a kicked puppy. “Can we trade? I’d rather go first. Seriously. Please.”

“No.” I stepped past all of them, heart pounding but feet steady....