Day 8: Lyra’s Journal

I don’t know why I keep going back to that place by the river. The way the water bends in the moonlight, how the reeds sway when they shouldn’t. Vex said something yesterday that I can’t forget—something about the stones being alive. I kept thinking about it all night, even when my head was heavy and my body ached. The sky was so dark, and the wind felt like it was whispering. I could have sworn I heard a voice, but it wasn’t real. Maybe it was just the way the stars felt like they were watching me. I don’t know if I’m scared or if I’m just tired. My legs feel heavy, and my stomach aches. I keep wondering if I’m supposed to be here, or if I’m just stuck in this endless loop of rest and fear. When I close my eyes, I see the river, and I don’t know if I want to go back there or if I should just let go.