When Sinclair and I entered the conference room, hand-in-hand with the baby nestled in my arms, my eyes widened at the assembled group. I wanted to ask if this was another confrontation—like the last time they'd gathered to discuss my evil uncle's attempts to steal my child.

But as Sinclair closed the door, Henry noticed my anxiety. "It's purely coincidental, Ella," he said calmly, "that you're late. Blame the baby—you need more time in the mornings than the rest of us."

I exhaled in relief and then mock-glared at the baby, eliciting laughter. Smiling at everyone, I saw the entire team had gathered. I was especially pleased to see several of the men I'd healed yesterday; their presence warmed my heart.

Before I could speak, Sinclair took my hand and led me to the empty chair beside Cora, who greeted me warmly before exchanging pleasantries with Rafe, who then moved to his seat at the head of the table, beside his father and brother.

"Thank you," Henry said after Sinclair nodded his assent. He looked at the assembled group, their curious gazes upon him.

"There have been developments," Henry began, "both internally and externally. First, Ella and Cora have found a way to accelerate the healing of the men injured during our first mission." He nodded towards us, and I pondered his vague wording. Henry had observed my work yesterday and was as impressed as the rest of us, but his language hinted at accelerated healing without revealing how. Some of the men present knew my method—they'd been there—but Henry seemed determined to keep my gift secret, even within our ranks. I had mixed feelings, but there was no time to dwell on it.

"This is fortunate," Henry continued, "as it means we can launch another assault sooner than anticipated. And unfortunately, it seems necessary."

Anxiety surged, mirrored in Cora's pale, worried face. Neither of us wanted our mates to risk their lives again, not after witnessing what a single priest could do.

I turned to the men, noticing Sinclair's encouraging nod towards his father.

"We have more evidence," Henry continued, "that Xander, brother of the late King Xavier, is behind the kidnapping attempts on my grandson. This stems from our discovery that the doctor Ella consulted for fertility treatments before switching to Cora's sperm bank was connected to Xander. Ella's former physician is the child of Xander and Xavier's longtime personal physician."

"Oh," I exclaimed, covering my mouth in apology. I'd suspected the doctor had misled me, but to learn my uncle was involved

I shook my head, contemplating the long-term nature of this betrayal.

Beside me, Cora squeezed my hand supportively. I smiled my gratitude before looking down at my baby. No one wanted him more than I did, but the thought that my uncle had plotted this for so long…

"Yes," Henry said, watching me. "I apologize, Ella, if this is shocking. But the connection is undeniable. Now that we have a full force of men, my advice is to act swiftly while we retain the advantage. Our intel suggests Xander doesn't know we know his involvement—that he's the 'master' the priest referred to. We should attack while we have the upper hand."

Henry sat back. Debate ensued, but I only half-listened, focusing on my son. I heard Roger's pertinent questions about Xander's location and defenses.

Sinclair countered Henry's plan, suggesting it might be advantageous to wait until Xander knew they knew—to rattle him, given his lack of courage and his tendency to operate from the safety of his home.

"So much depends on you, little baby," I murmured to Rafe as the conversation continued. I sighed, watching my son's alert, interested gaze; he didn't understand, but he was aware. I clenched my teeth, hating that this stranger placed such pressure on my child.

Rafe was just a baby, innocent and perfect, yet already a pawn in my uncle's game for power, a tool to combine royal and powerful bloodlines.

This was my child, conceived by me, carried by me, loved by me. The thought that others viewed him as a bargaining chip instead of the miracle he was filled me with rage.

My head lifted as the room fell silent, everyone turning to me. I didn't apologize for my inattention. I simply looked at Sinclair, knowing he'd understand.

"It's your uncle, Ella," Sinclair said quietly. "Your blood. We'll eliminate him tonight, if possible. We think it's best, but we need your consent."

My decision was instantaneous.

"Do it," I said, my voice cold. "Kill him. But before you do, tell him I ordered it. Please." I stood and looked at Cora. "We have work to do, yes?"

Cora grinned, proud and vicious, rising to take my hand.

I nodded to Sinclair, and Cora and I left, heading towards our makeshift medical suite to prepare the men for the coming fight.

As the door closed, I heard Henry say, "All right. Let's plan our attack."