The throne room was silent.
The king stared at Kaela with disgust.
"The Shadow Crown… standing in my court."
Kaela clenched her fists.
"I didn't choose this."
The king laughed.
"Power is never chosen. It is taken."
He raised his hand.
"Execute her."
Suddenly—
Ryven stepped in front of Kaela.
"I won't allow it."
Gasps filled the hall.
The king's voice turned cold.
"You betray your kingdom… for her?"
Ryven answered without hesitation:
"Yes."