The first thing Nyra noticed? This woman in white had probably never heard the word “no” in her life.
She stood at the center of the hall like she owned the place. Her posture was so flawless it looked almost ridiculous—radiating confidence verging on arrogance. That gown, shimmering silver-white, flowed like moonlight. It clung to her like she’d been poured into it, every stitch so perfect it probably cost more than Nyra’s entire village could scrape together in a year.
Beautiful. Refined. Powerful. Dangerous.
Nyra’s instincts kicked in fast. This woman wasn’t safe.
And she didn’t bow—not even a hint. Didn’t drop her gaze. No sign of respect. She just stared straight at Nyra and smiled—a cold, cruel smile. Not friendly, not polite, but the sort meant to make you feel small. Nyra knew
