Chapter 48

As we were ready to go, the fresh, chilly morning air nipped through my cloak as I pulled it tighter over my shoulders. Lucien surveyed our gathering with a hard stare and a set countenance. A few of our men were dependable combatants who had accompanied him from the start. But I could feel their uneasiness despite their commitment. They were all aware of our purpose.

This mission was more than simply diplomatic. This was an appeal for assistance.

For weeks, the danger of rogues had been increasing, hovering on the boundaries of our domain, striking swiftly and then disappearing like darkness. They had stopped being a dispersed annoyance. They had evolved into something more structured and lethal under Alec's guidance. We were much more exposed as a result of Elaine's treachery and her plans to turn the pack against Lucien.