Deep beneath the palace, something ancient completed its formation.

  The Ash Crown rose from molten stone, forged from fragments of the broken seals and threads of infernal will.

  Malrec stood before it, eyes blazing with hunger.

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  “I was chosen to protect this kingdom,” he murmured.

  The demon’s voice rumbled faintly through fractured reality.

  “You were chosen to tempt fate.”

  Malrec reached forward.

  The Crown hovered before him, pulsing like a second heart.

  Above ground, Arin collapsed suddenly, clutching his head.

  Kael caught him before he struck stone.

  “It’s calling me,” Arin gasped.

  “Yes,” Kael said grimly.

  “It’s calling both of you.”

  Malrec placed the Ash Crown upon his head.

  And screamed.