Ivy's POV
"Daddy?" Keira's tiny voice trembled with fear. "What happened?"
"Hey baby." Keir's tone immediately softened as he addressed his daughter. "How are you feeling?"
"Are you going to leave me now?" Her question hung in the air, weighted with childish understanding beyond her years. Keir's breath caught audibly before he answered.
"Not yet, baby. But soon."
My vision gradually cleared, the blurriness fading around the edges. I found myself drawn to the child, compelled by something beyond rational thought.
"He will never truly leave you, young shaman. That I can promise." My voice sounded different even to my own ears - deeper, more resonant. "Our ancestors live on through us. And he will watch over you."
When my sight fully returned, I was cradling Keira's small face between my palms, feeling a connection that defied explanation.
"Ivy...you promise?" she whispered.
"I promise." I pressed my lips against her forehead, and she released a small sigh.
