Prologue

The intense wave of Kameen’s fury washes over me before I step foot inside our mountain hideaway. The stone beneath my feet shakes with the ferocity of his rage, and I close my eyes and prepare myself for his wrath. As truly saddened as I am to have defied him so blatantly, it had to be done. And whatever my punishment, it is a price I have always been willing to pay. For too long, our world has existed in chaos and disharmony. Ophelia Hart will bring balance and, with it, peace. Magical creatures of all kinds shall thrive once more. “Nazeel!” I bow my head in deference as he approaches. “What have you done?” His growl is low and dangerous. Accusatory. Designed to bring lesser immortals to their knees. But it has no such effect on me. “I did what was necessary, Kameen. To unlock the girl’s⁠—” “You did what you wanted,” he bellows, his deep voice echoing off the old stone walls of the grand entrance hall. “Why could you not just leave it be?” His jaw tics, his dark eyes imploring me to