The palace trembled again.
A deep explosion shook the silver windows, sending dust drifting from the ceiling.
Grace looked toward the hidden corridor.
The Moon Crown was waiting somewhere beyond it.
But outside, the Shadow King's army was closing in.
"We don't have time," Kael said.
Orion nodded. "Grace must reach the Crown before the Shadow King enters this chamber."
Grace looked at them both.
"And what will you do?"
Kael drew his sword.
"We hold them back."
Grace shook her head.
"No. You could die."
Kael looked directly into her eyes.
"I made one terrible choice already."
His voice softened.
"I'm not going to make another."
Grace's heart tightened.
Before she could respond, Orion placed a hand on her shoulder.
"Go."
Grace hesitated.
Then she turned toward the corrido
