Chapter 25 · You will when it chooses you

"You will when it chooses you."

The line snapped.

The crown above the throne exploded into black sparks.

Lyra screamed.

The creatures threw themselves backward. The tower split from floor to ceiling. A deep crack opened across the chamber wall, revealing another passage beyond.

Cane dropped the burning line and ran to Lyra.

"What did you do?" she shouted.

"I cut the seal."

"You cut the lock!"

"Same thing."

"No, it isn't!"

The throne turned toward him.

Not moved. Turned.

Its stone back rotated, and the hollow crown now faced Cane.

Lyra shoved him behind her. "Don't look at it."

"Why?"

"Because it sees you."

"It's a chair."

"Then why is it breathing?"

The black stone expanded and contracted.

Once.

Twice.

A thin line of red opened across its seat.

Cane took Lyra's hand. "We're leaving."

"The passage leads deeper."

"The stairs lead to the swarm. Pick one."

"You don't get to pick for both of us."

"The pact says otherwise."

Her glare could have cut armor. "Use the bond, then. Force me."

Cane stared at her.

She stepped closer, daring him. Her chest nearly touched his.