The palace shook violently.

Dust fell from the ceiling as the Crimson Core floated above the throne.

Lucien stared at the old man.

The same man who had warned them in the forest.

The same man who had helped them reach Veyra.

The same man who had claimed to regret trusting the First Mother.

"You."

The Keeper lowered his head.

"I had hoped you wouldn't discover the truth this way."

Lucien's sword rose.

"You betrayed us."

The Keeper looked at him.

"No."

"I betrayed myself a long time ago."

Evelyne smiled.

"Tell them."

The Keeper sighed.

"I was never your ally."

---

Seraphina stepped closer to Lucien.

"Then why did...