The Library of Forgotten Shadows

Feather led them through the winding corridors of the palace, dancing so lightly she seemed not to touch the floor. Noon went in front, pressing himself against the walls whenever guards went by, melting into them completely, then stepping out again and signalling for the others to follow. Yazan and Tala came after them, holding their breath and walking on tiptoe.

"If my mum could see me now," Tala whispered in Yazan's ear, "she'd say: that's the first time you've ever walked quietly in your life!"

Yazan swallowed a laugh.

They went down a long staircase, then another, until they were beneath the palace, somewhere colder and older. At the end of the passage there was a small round door, carved with the shape of a lantern.

"The Library of Forgotten Shadows," whispered Noon. "Nobody comes here. Not even the king comes here any more... not for a very, very long time."

And they went in.