Elara's POV
The time suddenly stopped ticking. Kael’s blade arced toward the pulsating heart of the Severing Stone. Aric moved with a speed that belied his size, his white spear intercepting the black blade with a clash that echoed like a gong through the chamber. Leaving the explosion of green and silver spark.
“Fool!” Aric boomed, shoving Kael back. “Strike the Stone with that poisoned metal and you could unravel the magic of the Cradle itself!”
Kael snarled, regaining his balance. “Then stand aside, old man. My destiny is here. It lies beyond it!”
While Aric engaged Kael, Lyra pushed me behind her, toward the dais. “The trial begins now, whether you are ready or not! Place your hands on the Stone now!”
“But what of Lucian”
“He is fighting his own battle! Yours is here! Trust the b
