The first explosion shook the ballroom before anyone could react.
The chandeliers shattered, raining crystals that glittered on the floor.
Screams tore through the hall as nobles and servants scrambled for the exits, and the distant sound of tearing stone echoed from above, like thunder grinding against the heavens.
"Move!" the King's voice thundered through the chaos. "Everyone, out of the ballroom, now!"
Guards rushed forward, forming lines to escort the guests. Noah grabbed Princess Ines' arm, dragging her through the stampede of terrified nobles.
The moment they stepped into the courtyard, the night split open.
A blazing meteor of black flame and shadow tore through the sky.
The dragon descended like a storm. Its wings were vast enough to block the stars, and its roar was a sound that rattled bones and hearts.
The air itself bent around its descent, and then, with a deafening crash, it struck the outer walls of the palace.
