Chapter 16 – Trial of Truths
The Grand Hall of Aetherlight Tower had been transformed overnight into something that looked pulled from legend—its stone columns were draped in silver-threaded silks, enchanted torches glowed blue, and at its heart, on an altar of obsidian and mirrored glass, stood the Trial Mirror.
The contenders lined up in hushed anticipation. Noble daughters and foreign princesses all stiffened in their gowns, eyes flickering toward the artifact that would judge their worth—not by charm, but by truth.
“Each of you shall stand before the Mirror of Myrenna,” announced High Priestess Virelle, her voice carrying over the tense silence.
“It reflects not what you wish to be, but what lies buried beneath desire.”
Eira’s stomach churned. Mira stood behind her, whispering, “
