“You know in what way!” Fyba lost his control. The silver-tongued Fire Lord, the fearsome prince had been stripped away to a desperate man. Halle pressed her eyes closed. How had the world tilted so far off-balance? “Yes,” the Emperor said slowly. “I am afraid I do.” Halle could imagine the Emperor crossing the room to stare down his son as he had her when she heard his footsteps. “She clearly can’t be tamed, so she dies, Fyba . And I have every suspicion that it will be a far gentler death if it is done by your hand than mine.” WHAT WILL YOU do?” Baldair asked, finally breaking the silence and spurring Halle to action. “Baldair, go,” Fyba demanded sourly. “Brother, we can—” “I said leave me!” the crown prince seethed in pain. Both royals turned quickly as the shutter opened. Halle

