The atmosphere in the pack had shifted. Gloria may have escaped, but her presence seemed to leave a never- removable stain.

It was no challenge identifying the root of the problem because it lied on the surface. This is how wicked and dangerous the witches are: Gloria’s escape from the dungeon as an insult and a threat. Even though Ardan’s warriors patrolled the borders day and night, there was no comfort in their vigilance.

The war room had become our second home over the last few days. Maps, silver remnants of broken chains, and scattered parchments cluttered the table as Ardan, Zone, Rachel, and I tried to piece together how...