The fortress shook violently.

Cracks spread across the floor beneath Lucien's feet as the broken First Seal released waves of black energy.

Seraphina pulled Lyra closer.

"What is happening?"

Aster stared at the opening beneath them.

"The seal is collapsing."

Lucien looked at the Warden.

"You planned this."

The Warden smiled.

"Of course."

He raised one enormous hand.

The darkness around the chamber gathered around him like armor.

"For thousands of years, I guarded the First Seal."

"Waiting for the heirs to arrive."

"Waiting for the right moment to break it."

Lucien raised the Blade of Dawn.

"You won't leave this fortress."

The Warden laughed.

"You still believe this is...