Imogen stands outside the war chamber, her heart hammering against her ribs like a caged bird. She'd only wanted to prove her bravery to Daela, but now her feet itch with the desperate urge to flee. The massive stone chamber rises before her, its walls carved with ancient dragon symbols that seem to watch her with glowing amber eyes.
"I want to meet the King," she stammers nervously to the dragon soldiers stationed outside, who exchange knowing looks, recognizing her the friend of their king's mate.
Imogen's fingers clench in determination as they lead her into the beast's lair.
She spots her target behind a massive obsidian desk and her nails digs harder into her palms.
The other guests present look up as Imogen approaches. She recognizes Ruto and… her footsteps nearly falter as her eyes land on familiar amber-ocean ones.
Why is he here too?
Her heart, which was already beating with tension, skips entirely. Imogen looks away quickly; she has a mission to accomplish.
