The skies above the Flameborn court shimmered with golden light as dawn broke, casting molten reflections across the spires of obsidian towers. Aria stood at the heart of the courtyard, flanked by the three Alpha triplets—Dorian, Tobias, and Marcus. Her heart pounded like war drums in her chest, but her expression was calm, regal even. She had no choice but to be.
Selene had declared that Aria would undergo the Flame Trials—a sacred test for those bonded to the Flameborn bloodline. If she succeeded, she would be acknowledged as more than just a mate. She would be a Flameborn Queen.
But if she failed...
"She's not ready," Tobias growled lowly, tension rippling through his muscles as he clenched his fists.
"She's stronger than you think," Marcus replied, his eyes never leaving Aria.
Dorian remained silent, his gaze unreadable. Yet, through their bond, Aria could feel the storm in him. It was the same storm that churned inside her.
