Every time I closed my eyes, I saw the hidden compartment opening inside my mother's necklace and every time I remembered the ancient parchment concealed within it, another dozen questions flooded my mind.
By the time the first hints of dawn touched the mountains beyond Dragonspire, I had completely abandoned any hope of rest.
The parchment sat on the small writing desk near the window exactly where I had left it. Waiting.
The sight alone made my stomach tighten. I had spent my entire life believing the necklace was nothing more than a gift from my mother, yet now it seemed to be hiding secrets that could change everything I thought I knew about my family.
I quickly dressed, brushed my hair, washed my face and locked the door to my chambers before anyone could interrupt me.
Then I cro
