Lucian’s eyes slowly fluttered open, his vision hazy and unfocused. His head felt heavy, and it took him a moment to understand where he was. The familiar scent of cedarwood and cool mountain air told him he was back in his room. But something was wrong.
He blinked a few more times until the blurred outlines around him became clearer. He was lying on his bed, but his wrists and ankles were bound tightly to the bedposts with thick leather straps. Panic bubbled in his chest as he tried to move, but the restraints held him firmly in place.
A low voice caught his attention, and he turned his head toward the sound. Kael was standing across the room, speaking quietly to someone hidden in the shadows. As Lucian’s vision sharpened, his heart lurched.
Thalora.
The pale witch stood calmly, her w
