When the Stardust Settles (and I Still Like Her)

Previously

…“I think,” Elara said softly, her voice filled with a newfound confidence, “that the Stardust Bloom is revealing more than just cosmic chaos. It’s revealing… possibilities. And perhaps, it’s revealing them to both of us.” Lyra met her gaze, a slow smile spreading across her face, a smile that outshone any constellation. “Perhaps it is, Elara,” she said, her voice a warm caress. “Perhaps it is.” The wind outside seemed to quiet, the erratic pulse of the world momentarily subdued, as if waiting, holding its breath, for what would come next. The stardust settled, for now, in the small wooden box, a promise of power, and a nascent hope for a future that was just beginning to bloom.