The Moon Temple had never felt so silent.
Aria stood at the entrance, staring toward the mountains where Darius had disappeared.
Her mother's warning echoed in her mind.
Only one person could enter the Black Moon Throne.
Her.
Kaelen stood behind her.
“You don't have to go tonight.”
Aria turned.
“If I wait, Darius will grow stronger.”
“And if you go alone, you might not return.”
She looked into his eyes.
“I have to know what my father's power left behind.”
Kaelen stepped closer.
“I understand.”
His voice was quiet.
“But understanding doesn't mean I have to like it.”
Aria smiled faintly.
“I'll come back.”
“You promised that already.”
“And I intend to keep it.”
He reached for her hand.
“Then take this.”
He removed a small black pendant from around his neck.
Aria looked
