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

time. The palace feels different now, the air heavy with unease. I can’t shake the

watched, that danger lurks in every shadow.

that she feels in her

reading my thoughts.

finding his. Together. It’s a promise, a vow, and a source of strength. But as we make our way

can’t help but wonder if it will be enough. I also need to check in on the others.

arrived. The day unfolds in a blur of activity. James and

out Donn, our search leading them to the palace’s hidden library, a place few know exists. The Raven

high-backed chair, a book open in his lap, though his eyes are trained on them as

Donn remarks, his tone laced with amusement.

far from the truth, given the

time on pleasantries. “Jace was attacked. Someone’s after

turning thoughtful. “A key,

but nothing concrete. It could be related to

voice sharp. “What kind of artifact? And why would she want

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

immense power to whoever possesses it. Victoria’s been

it for years.”

gets her hands on it, she’ll be

tone grim. “Which is why we need to find it first. And I think I know where to start.” He

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

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

with me. “We’ll get it. No matter what

well, let’s go. But be warned—the archives are a maze, and the guards

our mission, as we navigate the palace’s labyrinthine corridors. My mind is