The preparation was frantic. Every available soldier being readied. Magical specialists being briefed on what to expect. Plans being made for assault on a fortified position.
I armed myself with every weapon I could carry. Knives, a sword, a crossbow. I wasn't going to be helpless this time. Wasn't going to watch from safety while others rescued my family.
"You shouldn't come," Elena said quietly as we prepared to leave. "You're the queen. If something happens to you while Kael is captured, Shadowmere loses both rulers."
"I don't care. My children are in that estate. My husband is being tortured for someone's research. I'm going and nothing you say will change my mind."
"I thought you'd say that. So I'm coming too. Someone needs to keep you alive."
"Thank you."
The ride to the Nightshade estate took four hours of hard riding. We arrived just before dawn, our forces surrounding the property quietly.
