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, the air heavy with

we are being watched, that danger lurks in every shadow. I glance at James, seeing

feels in her

my thoughts. “And we’ll get to the

a vow, and a source of strength. But as we make our

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

I vaguely remember seeing the Trio sleeping when we arrived. The day unfolds in a blur of activity.

hidden

a book open in his lap, though his eyes are trained on them as they

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

from the

attacked. Someone’s after a key.

expression turning thoughtful. “A key, you

It could be related to an ancient artifact,

voice sharp. “What kind of artifact? And why

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

Something that could grant immense power to whoever possesses it. Victoria’s been obsessed

it for years.”

hands on it, she’ll be

is why we need to find it first. And I think

despite his casual demeanor. “There’s an old map, hidden

But getting to it won’t be easy. The archives are guarded, and the map

exchanges a determined glance with me. “We’ll get it. No matter what it

quirk into a smile. “I am starting to like you, James. Very well, let’s go. But be warned—the archives are a maze, and the guards are

we navigate the palace’s labyrinthine