NIKOLAI

The cool evening air seeped into my joints as I paced outside, the chatter that had been in my teeth earlier returning in full force as I looked up to see that a dark cloud had come over the silvery orb of the moon.

Good. It would provide us with much-needed cover if we were going to go running up the Burning City walls like lizards out for blood.

“Your Highness, scout troops are on standby, awaiting your orders.” A muscled guard announced behind me and I whirled to face him, surprised to find he was a bit taller than me, and straightening my spine instinctively.

I nodded, watching...