Adira’s POV
Like a monster poised to eat its prey, the stronghold towered over me. Its ragged spires, encased in whirling shadows, extended into the blood-red sky.
I inhaled deeply before moving forward. It was this.
By itself, the huge gates opened. Not a guard. Not in shackles. They anticipated my arrival.
My footsteps reverberated on the chilly stone floor as I entered. Darkness permeated the air and felt like unseen hands crushing against my flesh.
Then he showed up.
Standing in the middle of the hall, his dark cloak billowing like living smoke, was the Eclipse King. A slow, knowing smile appeared on his lips as his piercing red eyes met mine.
"You arrived," he remarked.
I raised my chin. “I won’t let my people die.”
He took a step toward her. "Astute." I felt his voice envelo
