Natalie's POV
"What is the Trial of Ascension?" I demanded. My voice echoed in the massive throne room and I hated how small I sounded. How desperate.
Lady Seraphis looked at Marcellus. He was fuming. His red eyes glowed brighter and his hands gripped the armrests of his throne so hard I heard the wood crack. But he gestured for her to continue. Permission granted even though it clearly made him furious.
"It is an ancient rite," Seraphis explained. She moved closer to me and her violet eyes were filled with something that looked almost like sympathy. "A test of blood, will, and power. If you pass you ascend to full Sovereignty. You will have complete control of your Winter Blood. No bond necessary. No anchor needed. You will be unstoppable."
"And if I fail?" I asked even though I alrea
