“It’s the antidote for your mother,” Zander said, hand trembling. “I gave Ava a potion so she could manipulate the Queen Mother.”

Gavriel’s jaw tightened. “You let that wretch control my mother?”

“Yes. I’ll accept whatever punishment you decide. But the antidote works, give it to her as soon as you return,” Zander explained.

Gavriel studied Zander for a long moment, then finally took the bottle. “If my mother suffers lasting harm, I will destroy your House myself. Do ...