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Chapter Thirty-Nine

Jasce

As I guide my horse alongside Reeve and Jude, my army follows us—an elite force of warriors ready to obey my every order.

Thankfully, after four days of tracking Asha and her army, we’re finally gaining on them.

My fingers tighten on the reins as an image of Annora’s smile flashes through my mind. Not the fake smile she’s worn lately, but the real one that lights up her entire face, making her eyes sparkle.

I’ll do anything to see that smile again.

First, I have to get her away from Aleksander.

He thinks he’s won, but he forgets that I’ve spent most of my life outmaneuvering him and outsmarting him.

Sand stings my eyes, but I keep them fixed on the horizon. Somewhere ahead, Annora rides with them.

My chest tightens at the thought of her being forced to march toward war against me and our people.

But I know my wife. She’s no passive victim. Behind that gentle exterior lies a strength that even Aleksander can’t comprehend.

Though, this isn’t just about Annora anymore. It’s about stopping Aleksander and Asha before they destroy our houses.

The sun climbs higher, but I barely notice the heat as my mind races through scenarios, backup plans, and contingencies.

I won’t fail. Not with Annora’s freedom and my people hanging in the balance.