Snow fell heavily as Lucien's party rode through the mountain pass.

No one spoke.

The only sounds were the pounding of hooves and the icy wind cutting across the valley.

The crimson pillar of light above Blackthorn Castle grew brighter with every passing mile.

Oracle Selene's face remained grim.

"The ritual has already begun."

Lucien urged his horse faster.

"Then we'll end it before it's completed."

---

By sunset, the towers of Blackthorn Castle came into view.

Seraphina's heart sank.

The kingdom was burning.

Smoke rose into the darkening sky.

The outer walls were scarred by explosions, and the royal banner had been torn down.

In its place flew the...