The council chamber fell into complete silence.
Aria held the letter from her parents tightly against her chest while the silver ring rested in her trembling palm. Her mother’s words echoed endlessly in her mind.
“Trust Damien.”
For the first time since this nightmare had begun, she finally understood one thing.
Her parents had expected all of this.
They had known she would eventually discover the truth.
She slowly looked up at Damien.
“My mother trusted you… before we even met.”
Damien lowered his eyes.
“My father must have promised to protect you.”
“And now you’re keeping that promise.”
“I intend to.”
Before Aria could respond, the chamber doors swung open.
Lucas entered quickly, carrying several maps and a satellite tablet.
“We’ve confirmed the enemy’s route.”
Damien stoo
