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

palace feels different

that danger lurks in every shadow. I glance at James, seeing the same

feels in her

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

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

will be enough. I also need to check in on

when we arrived. The day unfolds in a blur of activity.

hidden library, a

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

seen a ghost,” Donn remarks, his tone laced with amusement. “Though

far from the truth, given

no time on pleasantries. “Jace was attacked. Someone’s after a key. Do

thoughtful. “A key, you say? Interesting. I’ve

be related to an

forward, his voice sharp. “What kind of artifact? And why would

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

power to whoever possesses it. Victoria’s been obsessed

it for years.”

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

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

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

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

“We’ll

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

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