A month had passed since Alexei confided in them about the voice she heard, and they had been investigating constantly. There had also been sightings of Rogue Slayers in the borders, but they were not as cunning, and some had been caught.
They had their speculations - the rogues might be behind the voices in her head - but Alexei was special, and they couldn't deny that fact. Still, caution was essential.
As Alexei walked into Nikolai's study room, a weary smile on her face, he beckoned her onto his lap. She threw herself there, and they talked about her day. Alexei was the people's favorite Queen, uniquely beautiful, elegant, and gracious. Nikolai's mind became fogged when he remembered that someone wanted her, but for what purpose? Shifters were natural predators, and if this per
