The chamber fell into a terrifying silence.
Aria stared at the doorway.
Her mother stood there.
Lucian stood beside her.
Hundreds of warriors filled the entrance.
But something was wrong.
Aria could feel it.
Her mother's aura was not silver.
It was black.
Thick darkness surrounded her like smoke.
And Lucian's sword was dripping with blood.
“Mom?”
Aria's voice trembled.
Her mother didn't answer.
Instead, she slowly stepped into the chamber.
Kaelen moved in front of Aria.
“Stay behind me.”
Darius laughed.
“You still don't understand.”
Kaelen's eyes narrowed.
“Explain.”
Darius pointed toward Aria's mother.
“She isn't here to save her.”
Aria shook her head.
“No.”
Her mother finally looked at her.
Her eyes were filled with tears.
“Aria…”
“Tell me he's lying.”
Her mo
