Cassie's Pov I felt the change in the air the moment our convoy crossed the final ridge into the distant territory. The road narrowed. The trees stood closer. Luka drove. Asher rode in the front passenger seat. Caspian sat beside me in the back, eyes on the tree line. No one spoke until the first checkpoint appeared.The guard stepped into the road and raised a hand. Luka slowed but did not stop completely until the man was close enough to hear.“State your purpose,” the guard said.“We’re here at the invitation of your council,” I answered. “Cassie of Northbridge. Lunar Queen. These are my mates—Luka, Asher, Caspian. We’re expected.”The guard’s gaze flicked over the four of us. “The council does not recognize outside triads. You’ll wait here.”Asher’s voice stayed level. “We didn’t travel this far to wait on the side of a road. Inform them we’ve arrived.”The guard hesitated, then spoke into a handset. Minutes passed. Finally he stepped aside. “Proceed to the central hall. Do not d
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