Sunny's POV
The purple light exploded outward, but instead of solving everything, it made the Shadow King laugh.
"Foolish children!" he shouted over the magical chaos. "Your combined power only makes you more valuable to the Council!"
The blinding light suddenly vanished, leaving Sunny blinking in the dim crystal tower. Through their bond, he felt Luna's shock and disappointment. Their desperate attempt to break the impossible choice had failed.
"Seven minutes left," the Shadow King announced cheerfully. "Your parents die in seven minutes if you don't choose the portal."
"And our friends die in fifty-three minutes if we don't go to the fortress," Luna added miserably.
Queen Celeste grabbed Luna's shoulders. "Daughter, listen to me. Your father and I are ready to die if it means you and your friends can live."
"No!" Luna cried. "I won't let anyone die because of me!"
"Then what's your plan?" King Apollo asked urgently. "Because time is running out."
