Hidden Flame: Bound to the Triplet Dragon Kings

**Avery**

“Take care of him,” I instruct, standing to make way. The healer kneels beside Jace, his hands moving efficiently as he

assesses the butler’s injuries.

James pulls me aside, his expression grim. “This changes everything. If someone’s after a key, it could be related to

Victoria’s plans. We need to figure out what it is and where it’s hidden.”

I nod, my mind already turning over the possibilities. “Donn could help. He knows the palace better than anyone. Maybe

he’s heard something about a key.”

James’s eyes narrow. “We’ll find him. But first, we need to secure Jace. He’s not safe here.”

I agree, my heart is heavy with worry. Jace is more than just a butler—he’s a friend, a confidant, and now, a target. I watch

as the healer helps him to his feet, his arm draped around the man’s shoulders for support.

“We’ll take you to your chambers,” James says, his voice firm. “You’ll be safer there.”

Jace nods weakly, his eyes meeting mine. “Thank you, Your Majesty. I’m sorry… I failed to protect you.”

“You didn’t fail,” I assure him, squeezing his hand. “You’re alive, and that’s what matters. Rest now. We’ll handle the rest.”

As they escort Jace from the throne room, my mind is a whirlwind of questions and fears. Who attacked him? What is this

key they’re after? And how does it tie into Victoria’s plans? The answers feel just out of reach, but I know one thing for

The palace feels different now,

that danger lurks in every shadow. I glance

she feels in

if reading my thoughts. “And we’ll get to the bottom

a source of strength. But as we

if it will be enough. I also need to check in on the others.

arrived. The day unfolds in a blur of activity.

palace’s hidden library, a place few know exists. The Raven

high-backed chair, a book open in his lap, though his eyes

like you’ve seen a ghost,” Donn remarks, his tone laced with amusement. “Though I suppose

the truth, given the

pleasantries. “Jace was attacked. Someone’s after a key. Do you know

smirk fades, his expression turning thoughtful. “A key, you say? Interesting. I’ve heard

could be related to an ancient artifact, something

his voice sharp. “What kind of artifact? And

glinting with a knowing light. “Rumor has it, it’s a relic from the time of the

power to whoever possesses

it for years.”

she gets her hands on it, she’ll be unstoppable to most

“Which is why we need to find it first. And I think I know where

casual demeanor. “There’s an old map, hidden in the archives. It leads to

it won’t be easy. The

me. “We’ll get it. No matter

But be warned—the archives are a maze,

purposeful steps we began our mission, as we navigate the palace’s labyrinthine corridors. My mind