Two weeks after their last conversation, Seria had convinced herself she was maintaining appropriate professional distance.
She coordinated with Damien through written correspondence. Sent reports via courier. Attended one brief meeting at the estate to discuss remaining demon activity, stayed for exactly forty-five minutes, left before the conversation could become personal.
She was managing the situation. Controlling her exposure. Maintaining boundaries.
Then the eastern border collapsed.
The news arrived at dawn – organized demon forces, thousands strong, overwhelming the border garrison. Aldric's unit was among those pinned down, outmaneuvered by tactical coordination that suggested sophisticated intelligence.
Guard Commander – the real one, appointed after the corruption purge – called emergency meeting. Every available captain, every tactical resource, every able fighter needed for relief force.
