Silver light surrounded me.
I couldn't feel the palace.
I couldn't hear the battle.
Everything faded until only silence remained.
When the light finally disappeared, I found myself standing on the edge of a calm lake.
The water was perfectly still.
It reflected the sky like polished glass.
There was no crimson moon.
No dragons.
No war.
Only peace.
For a brief moment, I wanted to stay there forever.
"You've come farther than anyone before you."
The familiar voice made me turn.
Queen Aurelia stood beneath a willow tree, her silver gown moving gently in the breeze.
She smiled warmly.
"You passed the first two trials."
I walked toward her.
"Everyone's in danger."
"I know."
"I have to go back."
"You will."
"But not until the Third Trial is complete."
I sighed.
"What is t
