Chains bit into raw skin.
Xiluo stood barefoot on the cold marble of the High Council's chamber floor. Blood from her shoulder had long dried into her sleeve, the scent sharp beneath the polished gold pillars.
Nobles surrounded her like wolves in velvet.
“She won't defend herself," one barked. “Not a single word."
“She plotted the attack."
“She guided the blades with her maps!"
“She is the only one who could have."
“She never belonged here."
Ethan said nothing.
He stood at the top step, arms crossed, expression stone.
His gold eyes, always piercing, now unreadable.
“Prince Ethan," Vexan called out, voice calm and vicious. “What say you, then Will you shield her silence Or protect your kingdom"
Xiluo looked up.
Her gaze found his.
No tears.
No excuses.
Just one question Do y
