Darian's POV
Today was the worst day of my life. I’ve faced a lot of dark moments—the weight of a crown I wasn't ready for, the politics of the South, and even the day my father died. But none of those compared to the hollow, icy terror that had gripped me this morning. Standing in that dining room, watching the light fade from Raven’s eyes while I stood there useless... I never wanted to feel that again.
That helplessness had turned into a cold, hard resolve. I wasn't going to be merciful. I didn't care that Celeste and I were once close friends. I didn't care that our families had ties going back generations. She had tried to extinguish the soul of my fated mate.
Darian. Sage whispered in the back of my mind. My wolf’s voice was uncharacteristically small. She’s fine, right? How about
