MIREYA POV
Before I could respond to Kaela, a loud clang echoed through the hall.
A silver staff struck the marble floor once.
The sound rang through the room like thunder.
Every conversation stopped instantly.
Everyone turned toward the raised dais at the far end of the hall.
My breath caught.
Three figures had stepped forward.
In the center stood a man wearing a dark crown that gleamed under the chandelier light. His robes were deep crimson trimmed with black, the kind of clothing that screamed power.
I didn't need anyone to tell me who he was.
The King of Vaelis.
I had never seen him before… but I had heard enough stories growing up in Harrowden to recognize him instantly.
King Alaric Velkorin.
The stories about him were whispered late at night, stories told to scare children.
Ruthless.
Cruel.
A ruler who believed fear was stronger than loyalty.
And now he stood only a few steps away.
My stomach tightened.
To his right stood Jax.
