The blue flames flickered to life one after another.
One hundred ancient torches illuminated the hidden staircase beneath the Hall of Kings, revealing stone steps that disappeared into darkness. The air that rose from below was cold—not the ordinary chill of an underground chamber, but a cold that carried the weight of forgotten centuries.
No one spoke.
Even Marcus, whose fearless mouth was usually quicker than his thoughts, remained silent.
The whispers echoing from below unsettled every warrior present.
"The last Moon Queen has returned..."
"The heir has awakened..."
"The covenant shall be fulfilled..."
Aria instinctively touched the Moonstone pendant hanging around her neck.
It had grown warm against her skin.
With every step she took, its silver light became brighter.
Cassia
