And yet, the Dragon Emperor—who had always stood unshaken beneath the heavens—now looked like a child utterly cast aside, hollow and broken, with nothing left in his eyes but pain.

Evelyn’s eyes reddened instantly. Tears slipped free before she could stop them, and she covered her mouth, not daring to make a sound.

Vivian bit down hard on her lower lip until it bled. She could only stand there and watch, wanting more than anything to rush forward and comfort him—but she knew no one could mend the wound in his chest right now.

Luther’s grip tightened around the wraithblade until his knuckles turned white. Killing intent surged beneath his skin, hot enough to drive him forward on the spot—straight at Skylar, ready to fight to the death.

Grace held him back with everything she had. Her grip was firm as she shook her head slightly.

If they charged in now, they’d only be throwing their lives away.

Worse—they’d distract Jared even more.