Janelle POV
Pain was the first thing I felt when consciousness returned. Not just physical pain, though my back felt like it was on fire, but something deeper. The hollow ache in my chest where hope used to live.
I tried to move and gasped as fresh agony shot through me. The sound echoed strangely, and I realized I was in a stone chamber, not the dungeons. Candlelight flickered on ancient walls covered with tapestries I didn't recognize.
"Easy," a smooth voice said. "Don't try to sit up yet."
Lord Cassius appeared in my vision, his silver eyes reflecting the candlelight. He held a bowl of water in one hand and clean cloth in the other. For a moment, I thought I was dreaming.
"Where am I?" My voice came out as a croak.
"Safe," he said simply. "The Northern Courts maintain diplomatic quarters in every kingdom. King Magnus couldn't refuse me this sanctuary."
