CHAPTER SEVENTY - Where Light Meets Shadow

Lucas took a deep breath, straightening his shoulders. "I need your word that my pack members go free, regardless of the outcome." "Lucas, you can't trust him," Lilaya whispered urgently. "My word as Alpha," Victor agreed smoothly. "Once the ritual is complete, they will be escorted to the boundary and released." "Don't do this," Gabriel urged. "Whatever he's planning, it won't end with just the ritual." Lucas looked at each of his friends, then back to Victor. "I need a moment to consider." "Of course," Victor replied, his tone magnanimous. "Take all the time you need. But do remember," he added, gesturing to the guards surrounding them, "the clock is ticking." Before Lucas could respond, a crash echoed through the chamber as Aria dropped from her hidden passage above, landing directly on the moonstone altar. The ceremonial objects scattered, and the silver dust symbols smeared beneath her boots. "Aria!" Lucas exclaimed, his heart leaping in his chest. She moved with lightning