I guard the ward because losing her would leave me with nothing but the fear I have buried for years. Connor names the order's terms at the harbor, and the hunger I have denied answers before I do. Their authority is the reason I do not walk away.

The order's halls stand ready at dawn, their ledgers and vaults about to witness what the holy knights intend. They will hold me down and breed me there, claiming every inch while the guardianship papers lie beside us.

I stand at the threshold of their command, knowing one word from Connor will end my independence and bind me to them all.