Other words were said, but Novaya did not hear them. Her eyes were fixed on her best friend, watching the look of fury fade from her eyes and confusion and shame take its place. Goddess, she knew that look. She had worn it so many times herself.

Aurora met her eyes and said, “I’m sorry.” But Nova could only read the words on her lips because the sound was lost to another rumbling crash as the entire palace shook again.

Aurora stood, somehow still regal despite the dirt and dread that covered her. “It’s the Stormlord. He’s attacking the palace. We need to get out before it’s too late.”

It was not until Nova felt a gentle push at her back, urging her forward, that she realized the warrior had been touching her this entire time, and not once had her magic risen in response.

Skies, they were lucky. Kiran and the rest of the infiltration crew hadn’t met resistance until they had been almost completely out of the palace, and even then they’d had the numbers. The fighting had been minimal, just long enough to gain the advantageous position, then Kiran lobbed another jar of fog magic, and they made a run for it.

The palace gate was closed, but they were prepared for that. They no longer needed stealth, only speed. So they hurled a grappling hook over the wall and made quick work climbing over and lifting up their cargo.

The fog they’d left to consume the palace entrance bought them time. Anyone who came that way to look for them would be ensnared for some time. But the sooner they disappeared, the better. Zephyr had been the first over, and her lieutenant, Raquim, was to be the last. When only he, Kiran, and Ransom remained, they were caught off guard by the sudden approach of a figure at full sprint.

Raquim was quick to pull his weapon, but Ransom waved him off.

“He is one of ours.”

It was Bait who approached, winded and with his red hair plastered to his face by sweat or rain. He’d been assigned as lookout, and should have already been on the other side of the wall by now.

“What is it?” Kiran asked.

Bait winced, and looked at Ransom instead when he answered.

“After you lot left, Sly noticed something.”

“Noticed what?” Kiran asked.

Again, Bait kept his eyes fixed on Ransom, avoiding Kiran. “Jinx and Roar did not return to headquarters after they completed their part. Instead, they entered the palace grounds.”

“They did what?” Kiran growled.

“Sly followed them,” Bait rushed to reply. “To make sure they did not run into any harm, but, uh, she still has not returned. None of them have.”