The morning sun peeks over the horizon, its golden rays filtering through the castle windows as we prepare to depart. Three sleek vehicles are lined up in the courtyard: the first carrying a team of expert trackers and seasoned warriors, the third filled with more skilled fighters to serve as our guards. Caleb and I will ride in the second car, sandwiched securely between our protective details.

I didn't see the need to waste any more time, so I made the decision for us to travel the next day. Lily and I had already pored over every possible meaning behind Eric's abrupt silence last night. The only conclusion we could...