Serena POV

The torches in the holding chamber cast long, wavering shadows across the stone walls. The captured rogues groaned and shifted, their bindings tight but their defiance clear. Even in chains, their eyes burned with a mix of fear and stubborn pride. I stood near the edge of the circle, hands clasped lightly over my stomach, Leo sleeping soundly in the cradle Lucien had insisted be brought into the room. His innocence, his quiet breathing, anchored me as I braced for what we were about ...