Adare dug deep for patience. “Listen up, King. The Kurjans have developed the ability to withstand the sun, so you might want to send the word out. They’re probably ambushing anyone they want right now.”

“Bullshit,” Dage returned.

Adare pinched the bridge of his nose. “It’s true. We were attacked from two sides in full sun.” He pulled the phone away from his face, focusing on Ronan. “Why do you think they had a bigger force in the trees than the water?”

Ronan kept Faith plastered against his side. “I’m not sure. Maybe the water amplifies the sun?”

That was a good thought. It took Adare a beat to realize the king was yelling into the phone. “What?” he growled.

“If they’re able to go into the sun, why did the force you attacked the other day need to use protective gear?” Dage asked. “You described their equipment well, and we’ve been researching their uniforms around the clock.”

“How the fuck should I know?” Adare snarled. “Maybe the new ability is limited to special forces. But I’m telling you, two full squads attacked in the sun earlier, and the light didn’t seem to slow them down any. We got out of there fast. Also, Grace was taken by another Kurjan, but I haven’t reviewed the video recording yet.”

“Grace was taken?” The king’s voice lowered.

Adare swallowed, fighting a pain dead center in his chest. “Yes. And we need to know how they found her here. The only way would be if we were followed from Realm headquarters, either by a force or satellite. How shitty is your security?” He wanted to shake the king by his arrogant hair.

Dage was silent for a moment. “Our security is flawless. You weren’t followed from here.”

“Wrong. That’s the only way it could’ve happened,” Adare countered.

A soft voice murmured on the other end of the line, and the phone was muffled. Then the king returned. “Emma’s here and she might have an idea. Hold on for a few minutes.”

“I don’t have a few minutes. Get your satellite guys on it and track any vehicles that left my cabin today. Call me back.” Adare clicked off, already shucking his damaged pants and shirt to suit up for another op. He had to find Grace. His legs still hurt, but he shoved the pain away and tried to speed up his healing cells. He didn’t have time for weakness.

“They won’t kill her, Adare,” Ronan said, still holding Faith. “They’ll want all three Keys.”