Book Two – Chapter 26
The Price of a Crown
The Sun Temple trembled beneath the weight of ancient magic.
Golden sand spiraled through the vast chamber while black smoke poured from the feet of the cloaked figure.
The Sand Warden remained standing before his throne, his breathing uneven.
The golden crown upon his head flickered between brilliant amber and sickly violet.
The Hollow was still fighting for control.
"So," the cloaked figure said, its voice echoing unnaturally, "the Guardians gather exactly as I hoped."
Cassiel stepped in front of Lyra.
"You've hidden behind stolen power long enough."
The figure laughed.
"Hidden?"
It spread its arms.
"I have never hidden."
"You simply refused to see me."
---
The black cloak slowly dissolved.
For the first time...
We saw the face
