Selis's eyes darted to the pendant hanging against her chest—the one Salister had given her.
A last resort, a token of another bargain she'd made in secret.
She had promised herself she'd never use it. That she'd never betray Lucian like this. But now . . .
Another strike came, aimed for Emerald. Selis blocked it, barely. Her arms screamed in pain. I can't hold him back much longer.
Her trembling hand reached for the pendant. Forgive me, Lucian . . . but the villains must win!
With a shattering crack, Selis tore the pendant from her neck and smashed it against the floor.
The world convulsed.
The chamber blurred as thick, suffocating smoke poured out in waves, swallowing the torchlight until only shadows remained. The air grew heavy, acrid, choking.
Emerald gasped softly, her chains rattling as the darkness pressed in.
Lucian froze, his blade still raised. His eyes widened—not in fear, but in recognition.
