With that, Lyra left, disappearing into the night. I stood there for a moment, still in shock from the encounter. But eventually, I turned my attention back to the baby and to my duty to protect and raise it as my own.

As the years passed, I watched the baby grow and develop into a strong and curious child. The symbols on its forehead remained, a constant reminder of the child's unique destiny. And while I knew that danger lurked out there in the world, I also knew that I had a part to play in shaping the child's future. Together, we would face whatever challenges lay ahead and work towards creating a better world for all. Realizing that I still hadn't given the child a name and the goddess hadn't told me, I settled on Kerth. As Kerth grew, I taught him how to read and write, as well as how to defend himself. I knew that one day, he would have to face the dangers of the world below on his own, and I wanted him to be prepared.

Kerth was a quick learner and soon surpassed my expectations. He had a natural gift for strategy and combat. I wish I could have taught him more, but he quickly caught up and surpassed me as I wasn't much of a fighter.

As time went on, I continued to raise Kerth as my own until shortly after his thirteenth birthday when the high council heard of his existence. The high council had always been a source of unease for me. They were the governing body of Karthren, but their methods often seemed harsh and unforgiving. Now, with their attention turned towards Kerth, I knew that we were in danger.

I tried to keep Kerth hidden, but it was impossible. The high council's agents were everywhere, and they were relentless in their pursuit of information about the child.

One day, as we were returning from a trip to the market, we found our home surrounded by the council's soldiers. I knew that we had no choice but to fight.

Kerth was petrified out of fear as I asked the soldiers, "What business do you gentlemen have with our church today?"

The soldiers didn't seem to care for pleasantries as they pointed their spears at us. "We're here for the boy," one of them growled. "Hand him over, and no harm will come to you."

I knew that was a lie. The high council had a reputation for being ruthless, and once they had their sights set on someone, they wouldn't stop until they got what they wanted. I had to protect Kerth at all costs.

"I'm sorry," I said, my voice firm. "But I cannot allow you to take the boy."

The soldiers didn't seem surprised by my resistance. In fact, they seemed almost pleased by it. "Very well," the leader said with a smirk. "Then we'll have to do this the hard way."

The soldiers charged towards me, and then there was black. I woke up in a dimly lit room, my head throbbing from the blow I had received. As I tried to sit up, I realized that my hands and feet were bound, and I was unable to move. Panic set in as I looked around, trying to figure out what had happened to Kerth.

"Hello?" I called out, my voice echoing in the empty room. "Is anyone there?"

There was no response, and I began to fear the worst. Had they taken Kerth? Was he safe?

As I struggled against my restraints, the door suddenly opened, and a figure stepped inside. It was a woman dressed in the robes of the high council. I recognized her as one of the council's most trusted advisors, and my heart sank at the sight of her.

"Where is Kerth?" I demanded, my voice shaking with fear.

The woman just smiled at me, her eyes cold and calculating. "Don't worry about the demon spawn. He will be executed tomorrow at noon in the middle of the square in honor of our dear goddess."