Lucien's eyes widened.

"The person I trusted most?"

The First Sovereign's words echoed through the throne room.

"The Hunger is no longer beneath the earth."

Seraphina looked at Lyra.

Lyra looked at Nethros.

Then all three looked at Aster.

Aster stepped backward.

"Why are you looking at me?"

No one answered.

Aster's expression changed.

"Wait."

"I didn't do anything."

Nethros suddenly raised his hand.

"Everyone stay where you are."

Aster's eyes widened.

"You think it's me?"

"I don't know."

"Then don't point your weapon at me!"

Nethros hesitated.

The tension became unbearable.

Then a scream came from above.

Not Aster.

Not Lyra.

Not Seraphina.

A voice they all recognized.

"Help...