Selene sat in her chamber, staring at the parchment before her. The words were short, written in sharp ink. The letter was for Corvin’s old followers—those who had fled into exile after his defeat. She offered them a deal: safe passage through Drukbane’s borders in exchange for loyalty to her and a promise not to harm Draven. Her hand shook slightly as she sealed the letter.

She told herself she wasn’t betraying the kingdom. She was saving Draven. If Liora were gone, the curse would ...