Ravena's POV
I hurried through the palace gates, my cloak brushing the stones. The guards straightened at the sight of me, their eyes widening when I demanded entrance, but none dared block my way again.
The corridors echoed with the sound of my footsteps as I approached the throne room. I had no time for fear because the kingdom itself could bleed if I hesitated.
The massive doors opened with a creak, and there he was. The King sat tall upon his throne, his crown glinting in the torchlight. His presence filled the chamber, steady and commanding, his eyes sharp as they landed on me. For a brief moment, his expression softened with surprise.
“Ravena,” he called out slowly. “Why have you come in such haste? Is this about Lucien and Astrid’s wedding? Are you nervous about the preparation
