Vera returned to the capital under gray skies and scattered banners.
The outer walls bore scorch marks. Courtyards echoed with conflicting anthems. Every tower flew a different crest.
It wasn't war.
It was confusion dressed in velvet and swords.
---
She entered through the northern gate, flanked by Reed and three Threadless scouts. The guards didn't stop her. They just watched.
“You were right," Reed muttered as they crossed the plaza. “No throne. Just vultures."
“Vultures don't fight this quietly," Vera replied. “This is worse. This is waiting."
---
Inside the palace ruins, dust covered the steps of the shattered throne.
Vera ran her gloved fingers along the cracked marble.
“This used to feel untouchable," she said.
“And now?"
“Now it feels abandoned."
A voice echoed from ab
