7 Gage We arrived at the palace in the dead of night. It was agreed by Von, Bryn and myself along with the dozen Hunter guards Von brought, that the cover of darkness would keep my return a secret. At least until we were all safely within the walls and the guards could establish their protective perimeter. The existing palace guards, vigilant, as I expected, allowed Von’s team onto the grounds on my orders and his men took control of my wing of the property. I informed them not to wake my mother or my sister, for a reunion at such a late hour was not necessary. Morning would be soon enough to deal with my sister’s tears and my mother’s theatrics. And so I ensured Lexi, Katie and their mates had rooms of their own before I led Dani to mine. I refused to claim her final virginity. We were

