Valen's next words were cold, laced with pointed meaning. "You'd do well to remember Lord Henry. And the late Lady Joanna." He bowed again, deeper this time.
Helena's fingers curled into fists. Too many years. Too many lies. Everything was unraveling—and she was done playing the fool.
Her voice dropped to a dangerous whisper. "What is Akiya planning?" she asked. "What secrets are you hiding behind your precious kingdom and its illusions?"
Valen tilted his head, expression unreadable. "I'm not sure what you mean, Your Grace."
"Don't bullshit me," she snapped. "He's a half-dragon. His appearance is just like Ethan's when he shifted. And he's clearly affiliated with Akiya." She took a step closer. "And somehow, your team of so-called 'scientists' can teleport four people past two cursed zones—undetected by the Magic Tower?"
Valen didn't answer. His throat moved in a slow swallow, and his eyes darkened.
