At the House of Terravane, Candice paced back and forth inside her bedchamber with her hands clenched at her sides.

Every step felt heavier than the last. She hated being here, hated waiting and hated doing nothing while a war that could decide the fate of the continent was unfolding. If only magic still worked, and if only she could fight beside them instead of being trapped in silk curtains and polished floors.

She stopped by the window and stared out. Her chest felt so tight as minutes ...