The arrow meant for Ronan never reached its target.
Alaric moved with impossible speed.
Before anyone else could react, he raised his hand, and a wall of crimson light erupted between Ronan and the assassin.
The silver arrow shattered against it.
The assassin escaped into the shadows before the Blood Guard could reach the gallery.
The attack left everyone shaken.
Someone still wanted Ronan dead.
Someone who feared his redemption more than his betrayal.
Later that evening, after the palace had been secured, Alaric found Kaelira standing alone in the Hall of Memories.
“You’ve been carrying questions your whole life,” he said softly.
“It’s time I gave you at least one answer.”
He led her to a small stone pedestal in the center of the room.
Resting upon it was a crystal no larger t
