This was no knock-and-ask visit.

The door rattled hard under the first blow.

The second kick sent it slamming inward, splinters skipping across the floor.

Four soldiers filled the frame, their armor still dusty from the ride. No greetings, no orders read aloud—just the sharp-eyed hunger of men told to bring someone back by any means.

“Mama Mariah,” the one in front barked, voice already brimming with Sergius’s temper. “You’re coming with us. Now.”

She didn’t move from ...