*Rhys*

The sun dipped below the horizon as the gates of the royal palace loomed before us. My heart hammered in my chest, a wild rhythm threatening to betray my facade of calm.

I glanced at Axureon, whose human form strode with an imposing grace beside me. To any onlooker, he was but a man. To those who knew the truth, he was legend incarnate.

"Remember," I murmured, "to humans, calm is as vital as strength."

A knowing glint sparked in his ancient eyes, ...