Lyra’s POV
As I stood at the door, ready to leave for the banquet, I turned to Martin, who was standing nearby, always ready, always by my side. His loyalty had been unwavering since he swore it to me, but tonight, something felt off.
“You should rest tonight, Martin,” I said, offering him a small smile. “It’s just a banquet, nothing more.”
“As you wish, my lady.” He frowned slightly as if he didn’t agree, but nodded.
I stepped into the chariot, trying to push the unease creeping through me to the back of my mind. The whole day had been strange, unsettling even. Asher’s sudden push to announce Lily as Ranio’s mate still echoed in my thoughts, leaving a bitter taste in my mouth. How had things spiraled so quickly? And why was I even going to this banquet? I didn’t want to be there, bu
