The Marked Covenant

Gideon believed he was the only one bound by the gavel's dark turn. He never saw the ledger carved into her own flesh. As the mortal world faded into the smoldering shadows of her domain, Veraxia turned away, letting the heavy silk pool at her waist. The crimson brand along her spine flared to life, feeding on the fresh soul sealed by Gideon's verdict. She looked back over her shoulder, the heat of her wings sending a shower of burning sparks into the dark. "Every judgment you pass binds us closer, Magistrate," she purred, the Soul Coin in her hand ringing softly against her claw. "Look upon the law we serve. It has no mercy, no loopholes... and nowhere left for you to hide."