“The council is gathering,” announced a royal guard.
The king turned to them with a proud smile. “Let’s not keep the old fools waiting. I have a feeling this is going to be a very interesting session.”
Heiko’s jaw set, his eyes flickering to River, then to the hidden carriages outside.
“Interesting,” he murmured. “That’s one word for it.”
--
Inside, the castle walls whispered of secrets and bloodlines. Soon, the trial would begin. Truth would walk naked before the throne, and the masks that ruled kingdoms would begin to crack.
--
The air in the underground cell was thick with moisture and mildew. Darkness clung to the stone like rot, and somewhere distant, water dripped in an endless, rhythmic pulse.
Prince Thas stirred.
His body ached. His wrists were raw where the silver shackle
