The hallway outside of Aster’s room was abandoned. No need for staff in this part of the keep, they were all needed to wait on the special guests downstairs. Jace brought Aster around the corner from the stairs, kissed him lovingly and quickly, and ran his hand through his hair. A silent exchange of reassurance and strength, even as they heard the hurried, approaching footsteps of the man following them.

Kraegen had barely rounded the corner before Jace’s hand curled around ...