I watched the tender scene unfold before me with a warmth in my chest that I hadn't felt in centuries. Little Stella Luna—what a perfect name for such a precious child—had finally stopped crying and was now chattering excitedly about her new identity while nestled safely in Arthur's arms. The love radiating from that small family unit was so pure, so genuine, that it reminded me why I had spent millennia protecting this world.
Such beautiful innocence, I thought, my fingers continuing to stroke Luna's golden mane as she dozed contentedly in my lap. The ancient qilin had fallen asleep during the emotional discussion, her usual dignity completely abandoned in favor of the comfort she found in my presence. Even in sleep, she unconsciously pressed closer to me, seeking the maternal warmth that had been absent from her life for far too long.
My dear Luna. My precious, brave little light.
