The room had gone still, Lyra stood steady in front of her, hand resting lightly on the girl’s arm, then Kieran spoke.

“No.”

The word struck like an axe.

“No?” Lyra repeated turning her blind gaze toward him.

“She remains hidden. Out of sight. Out of reach.” Kieran stepped forward his face was carved in hardness every trace of softness totally disappeared.

Mara gasped faintly as she moved back slowly, Lyra brows were furrowed in annoyance “You gave me your word.” She blurted ...