Selene's POV

The news hit me harder than any blade.

The Night Mother was not free.

Her soul was still trapped in the Shadow Realm, bound to the Moon Goddess and being used to strengthen her power.

I had failed her.

I had promised her freedom. I had fought for her. I had watched her disappear in silver light, believing she was finally free.

But I had been wrong.

I walked through the palace corridors, barely noticing the wolves who bowed as I passed.

They saw their queen.

They did not see the guilt crushing her heart.

I had saved her body.

But I had left her soul behind.

And...