Karl's POV

I stood in the darkness outside Elena Rodriguez's compound, my heart hammering against my ribs. This was insane. If anyone found out I was here, if Seraphina discovered I'd made contact with Maya's mother, I'd be executed for treason. But I was out of options.

"You have five minutes before my guards shoot you where you stand," Elena's voice came from the shadows. She emerged, flanked by two armed wolves, her expression cold and unforgiving. "Talk fast, Blackwood."

"I need your ...