haise lounge, her palm still glowing faintly with the sigil burned into her skin.Kieran stood a few feet away, hands clenched behind his back, eyes fixed on the city below. He hadn't spoken in fifte

t answers," she finally said. Kier

ten magic. Magic born in the time of dragons." "I've never touched magic until yesterday." "Maybe not consciously. But something has been buried inside you for a long time, Elira. Something dangerous. The council feared it befor

er. "No." She took a step back. "I'm not that." It was. At the time of the Tyrin fire, you were a child. when the city that was warded burned. when one of the last Fireborn, your mother, died defending you. "I do

you. "And for that reason, I am here." Her voice broke. "Not because I'm important. Not because you are concerned. since I am a weapon. He didn't dispute it. Her eyes pricked at the corners, but she forced herself to hold back the tear

pain, but from the surge of memories, a scream tore through her throat. A burning fortress in the mountains. A red-haired woman yelling, "Run, Ashara!" "They will hunt you until the stars die," she heard a

However, it was too late. Blue flame and glass flew out of the window as it exploded inward. A dark figure with hands glowing with corrosive energy entered, their face hidden by a mirrored mask. Kieran Leaped, calling forth a blade of shadow. Steel struck. Sparks were flying. Elira's nerves were seared by the mark on her palm, which was burning brighter than ever when she attempted to move. Her knees gave way. The intruder faced her and spoke straight into her head. "Fireborn, they're all lying. Even him. He is not on