Daniel’s POV
I knew something was wrong the moment the guards came for me.
Not that they grab me or shout. That alone scared me more. They only bowed their heads and said, “The council is in session. You are to stand at the back of the hall.”
Just Stand. And not speak.
Not defend myself.
My hands shook as I followed them through the long stone corridors. My heart beat so loudly I was afraid someone would hear it. I had lived in fear before—fear of traffickers, fear of discovery—but this was different.
This fear wore silk and crowns.
When the council hall doors opened, the noise hit me like a wall.
Then I heard voices. Angry voices.
I slipped inside and stayed where they told me—behind a pillar near the wall, half hidden by shadows. From there, I could see everything.
The nobles w
