The air in the small hut was thick with the scent of herbs and sweat, a stark contrast to the distant, rhythmic dance of the scarce breeze across the meadows. Inside, a woman's agonized screams tore through the oppressive heat, her light blond hair plastered to her forehead with sweat.

"You are almost there," the elder woman, Catherina, encouraged, her gaze flitting nervously towards the blazing sun.

"I must hurry before the eclipse…" the woman on the bed cried, her red irises blazing with denial.

Catherina simply smiled gently, her eyes meeting the sharp grey gaze of the handsome young man in the corner, a rich navy cloak hinting at his wealth. "My king, there is no timer on these things, but I believe when the blood eclipse graces our lands, the princess will be born."

Minutes later, as the skies darkened and a rare blood moon blocked out the sun, a blinding light erupted around the hut, followed by a soft cry. "Congratulations, your majesty, it is a girl." A storm of emotions swirled in the king's eyes. He took the bundled child, only to be met by two blazing red and gold eyes, brighter than the sun itself. His beloved wife turned away, her heart breaking.

"No. Take her and leave," she said, her voice icy. "There is no other option."

He left, clutching the child Layana, hearing her strangled sobs fade behind him. There truly was no other option. Not if he wanted to save her.