Luna's heart hammered in her chest as she stood face-to-face with Crown Prince Theron. His cold eyes glinted with the cruel certainty of someone who believed they had already won. The weight of the moment pressed down on her—this was it, the culmination of everything they had fought for. If Theron had control of the Core Sunstone, if he could harness its power, the Daylock would fall in his favor.
Aiden stood beside her, sword in hand, his posture taut with readiness. His gaze never wavered from his brother, but there was a flicker of something else in his eyes—a mixture of anger, betrayal, and the bitter edge of long-held resentments.
“We don't have to do this, Aiden," Theron said, his voice smooth and insidious. “I've tried to be patient with you. I've tried to offer you a place at my
