Malrik’s POV

The moment Tavian called to confirm Ansel’s sisters had been delivered safely to Cassian and Quillan, a breath I hadn’t even realized I was holding finally slipped free. The tension coiled tight in my chest eased a little. They were safe for now and that single fact gave me a sliver of peace.

But I knew this wasn’t an ending. This was only the beginning.

There were still fires to smother, debts to settle, battles waiting beyond the door.

Before I could face the ...