Midnight Queen's POV
I felt the moment Darius died. His betrayal burned through our link like acid, making me scream in rage. The mirrors in my room shattered. The black candles melted in seconds. Even my shadow dogs cowered in the corners.
"My Queen?" General Vex stood in the doorway, his scarred face pale. "What happened?"
I composed myself, smoothing down my midnight gown. "Darius is dead. And he has betrayed us."
"Impossible. He was your most loyal—"
"Silence!" I hissed, my voice booming with power. "Never speak of loyalty to me again."
I crossed to the great window of my tower. Below, the Syndicate compound buzzed with activity as my men prepared for war. Beyond them, the fake Blood Moon already turned the sky red. My work. My signal.
"Bring me Isa's apprentice," I ordered.
Vex bowed and left. Moments later, he returned with a trembling girl. Maya—Isa's most potential student before the witch betrayed me too.
"Your Majesty," Maya whispered, keeping her eyes down.
