The words inside the Crystal Heart continued glowing.

THE SOVEREIGN LIED.

No one moved.

Lucien stared at the message.

"He's been lying to us."

Nethros slowly pushed himself to his feet.

"I knew something was wrong."

Seraphina looked at him.

"You knew?"

"Not everything."

Nethros glanced toward the distant palace.

"But I never trusted the Sovereign."

Lyra held the Crystal Heart tightly.

"It says he wants me."

Lucien immediately stepped closer.

"He won't get you."

Aster looked worried.

"That's not the only problem."

"What is it?" Seraphina asked.

Aster pointed toward the crystal.

"The Hunger is still inside."

The black flame moved again.

Another message appeared.

DO NOT RETURN TO...