Ch 12: The Blood Magic Ritual

Despite her racing heart, Astasha forced a calmness over herself. Not only was she about to break more magical laws than she had ever thought possible, she was also sneaking the most dangerous being in the kingdom out of the only place it was secure. There was no time for second thoughts now, though.

Once again, she urged the flames outside the Prince’s door apart. But before stepping through, she paused.

The moment the demon crossed that barrier, her life was forfeit.

She thought about the promises she had made, the oaths she had sworn, to the Advisory, the King, Cal, even herself. Somehow, each of them had led her there, to that moment, and with a final breath of freedom, she walked through the parted fire and into the hall, the demon right behind her.

Making their way out of the castle was slow going and full of anxious pauses. Each second, she waited for the alarm to sound, every corner, for Errant to come into view.

But after a handful of quick ducks into small corridors, an