Oath of Betrayal (The Broken Bonds: Slavic Fantasy #1)

M y late-night conversation with Orm had taken the word ‘disturbing’ to a brand-new level. My world had been turned upside down when the commander had decided to recruit me, and the worst thing about it was that I felt attracted to him—not just his physique, but the calm he projected.

It was only me who felt that way, apparently, because everybody else was terrified of the man who could impose his will on the town council whilst maintaining a polite kindness. Amidst my wildly differing reactions, my magic had made a grab for his soul, picking the most unlikely of men as my next Anchor.

What the fuck is wrong with you? He isn’t even a mage. I tapped my chest as if the primal force within could hear me. I’ve made a deal with a demon. A handsome, calm, but ruthless demon, I thought.

But I had to give it to him: Orm had me exactly where he wanted me. Between having the key to my geas and threatening to reveal my secret, he had manipulated me flawlessly into the situation. What angered me was that I understood his actions—and in his place, would have done exactly the same, likely with less grace and consideration.