Defying the Rogue Alpha

Dorian grimaced as he pressed a palm against his still-tender side where Herod’s blade had kissed him just the day before. "They were estranged."

"And now, he suddenly calls on his long-lost sibling?" Herod snapped. "Family’s just a convenient weapon these days, isn’t it?"

Dorian hesitated, measuring his next words. "I didn’t think he’d go to him for help."

Herod paused, his eyes narrowing. "Well then..." he said slowly, a dark smile creeping onto his lips. "I suppose I’ll just have to put an end to the Raventhorn bloodline... technically." He muttered the last part more to himself. Of course, Ava was still pregnant though Herod refused to see that child as anything more than a temporary inconvenience. A Raventhorn, yes, but under his control.

"I do think you should be wary," Dorian offered. "If Lucas is handing the charge to Dennis, it means he has something else...or someone else...up his sleeve. My best guess? Missy and Lanaya. They’re the most powerful spiritualists in the east."

"He mentioned his people are scattered around the border." He turned sharply toward Dorian. "You know the brother. I want you and Alaric on this. Sniff him out. And if those spiritualists are here, bring them to me. Alive. If possible."

Dorian bowed, hiding a sigh behind his clenched jaw. "As you command."

*****

Lucia was back in Ava’s chamber.

"The royal designer will be in later today with your dress for the ceremony," Lucia said lightly.

Ava, seated before the mirror, didn’t bother looking up. Her fingers hovered uselessly over a comb, unable to summon the will to brush through her own hair. "I didn’t even get a say in my own dress," she muttered, more to her reflection than to Lucia. Her heart thudded against her ribs. Was Lucas okay? Was he cold? Hurt?