Chapter 157. A Bargain With You

Ash burst through the open door, furs flashing with a faint glow. He planted himself between Althea and the intruders and let out a long, protective howl. The sound put everyone on edge, Althea knew at once something was very wrong.

“My lady,” Melva gasped, stepping forward to shield her.

Althea rose quickly and moved in front of Melva. “Stay behind me, Melva. That’s an order,” she said, voice low and steady. The Queen Mother filled the doorway, her face black with fury. Two women trailed behind her.

The Queen Mother’s claws were elongated, stained with blood. Beyond the doors, three of her warrior guards lay on the floor, wounded, bound and struggling against a mage’s restraints.

The message was clear. The queen was here to punish and she was furious.

“How dare my son bring you here?” the Queen Mother spat, eyes bloodshot. She stalked across the room, spotted the gown laid out for the party, and a cruel smirk twisted her lips.

With