“They signed it," Ethan said, voice flat.
Xiluo's eyes lifted from the rune-lined wall.
He stood in the dungeon doorway, still soaked from rain, fists clenched. Behind him, guards waited with iron restraints. Not for her—but for the illusion of order.
“It's official," he said. “The execution proceeds at dawn."
She stepped forward, slow.
He couldn't meet her eyes.
“I fought them. I gave them proof the evidence was forged. I begged."
A pause.
“And they said Too late."
Her lips parted. “No…"
He looked up, throat tight. “You spoke. I heard you. You said you never betrayed me."
She nodded once.
“And I believe you." His voice broke. “But it doesn't matter anymore. Not to them."
Her hands rose—trembled as she signed So fight them.
“I have! I abandoned my claim to the high council. I
