The torches flickered in the narrow corridor leading to the lower chamber, the air damp and heavy with tension. Inside, Marah sat silently, staring ahead, her wrists clenched tightly on her lap. Ralph had just stepped forward.
Edwin remained still, his gaze fixed on her, jaw locked in quiet resolve.
Then, knock knock.
The sharp double knock echoed through the corridor, followed by the heavy thuds of approaching boots. Edwin's eyes narrowed.
This time there came another knock, louder and impatient. Edwin signaled to Ralph to check who was at the door.
Ralph tactically moved to the door and unlatched it.
Without warning, Vanessa swept in first, dressed in a flowing black gown, swiftly followed by Garrett, who wore a smirk that barely disguised his irritation.
"What is the meaning of
