In the main hall, Ivanka continued to smile in happiness, surrounded by light and praise.
And far from there, on a dark road carrying someone away from the castle, a secret had already turned into a wound a wound that, if ever opened, could become the beginning of a ruin even the elders would be powerless to contain.
That night should have been a sweet conclusion to a grand celebration. The music had stopped, crystal glasses stood empty, and the laughter of nobles faded as they returned to their respective chambers. Yet for Kosler Castle, the night was only just beginning an hush heavy with cruel decisions never spoken aloud.
