Thunder cracked as nobles filed into the war chamber.
Rain lashed the stained-glass windows, lightning turning polished walls into scenes of fire. The scent of wet stone mixed with unease.
Reno stood at the head of the council table, expression unreadable. His generals whispered. His advisors looked everywhere but at him.
And then—
“A break-in at the queen's wing?" Lord Deren barked. “This is treason!"
“No," Lady Vale said, voice icy. “It's desperation. The traitor bride knows her time is up."
“She was seen," another muttered. “Disguised. Hiding something."
Reno lifted a hand.
Silence fell.
Before he could speak, the chamber doors creaked open.
A figure stepped inside.
Soaked in rain.
Mud on her cloak.
Eyes hollow but burning.
Adele.
Gasps tore through the room.
“She's not
