WINTER

“Fire…” I breathed, panic clawing up my throat as orange flames bloomed from a single point, licking outward in greedy waves.

Thick smoke curled into the night air, “The mansion is on fire. Valtor is still inside!”

“The King has ordered us to keep you in the carriage, lady." one of the guards said firmly, standing rigid outside the door.

“Are you crazy? He is still in there!” I snapped, my voice trembling with fury and fear. “I have to get to ...