Chapter 145 - A Duchess Rides to War

"Ambushed? What do you mean ambushed?" The world seemed to narrow around me, sounds becoming distant as the messenger's words echoed in my mind.

The man, still on his knees, looked up with bloodshot eyes. "It was a trap, Your Grace. The border troubles—they were orchestrated to lure the King and Duke there. When they arrived, Blackwood forces attacked in far greater numbers than expected."

Cassian kept his sword drawn but allowed the messenger closer. "Speak clearly, man. What of the Duke's condition?"

"When I left, he was leading a counterattack to create an escape route for King Theron," the man said, his voice breaking. "He ordered me to ride with all haste to inform the Duchess and call for reinforcements. Duke Alaric said to tell you specifically, Your Grace—his men are outnumbered three to one."

My hand flew to my belly instinctively, our child seeming to sense my distress with a sudden flutter of movement. Alaric was in danger. My Alaric—trapped, fighting, perhaps already—