Raiden's head snapped up as Astrid and Wraith neared the cell, concern flickering across his face as he saw the streak of blood on Astrid's cheek. "Are you okay?" he demanded, jumping to his feet.
Astrid couldn't meet his gaze. "You're free to go," she said quietly, stepping aside so that Wraith could unlock the door.
Raiden stepped out, regarding Astrid, alarm swimming in his gaze. He cupped her face in his hand. "What did you do?" he whispered, brushing a thumb over the now-dry streak of blood left from the Queen's touch.
"I'm sorry I won't be able to see our mission through," Astrid said, trying in vain to keep her voice from shaking. "But you know where the Seal is. And I need you to look after the kitten. He was sleeping on the bed when we left. Everything will be okay."
"No," Rai
