CHAPTER 46

(SHEILA'S POV)

As I stood before Orion, trying to quell the rising tide of fear threatening to consume me, I forced a smile to my lips and summoned every ounce of courage I could muster. But beneath the facade of bravery, my heart pounded in my chest, a constant reminder of the stakes at hand.

I listened intently to Orion's words, his warning resonating within me. He was right—any misstep on my part could lead to dire consequences, perhaps even capital punishment. The gravity of the situation hung heavy in the air as I grappled with the reality of what I was about to undertake.

Yet, despite the fear gnawing at my insides, I remained steadfast in my resolve to uncover the truth. With a determined shake of my head, I lightly slapped my cheeks, a physical gesture to steel my nerves. Then, meeting Orion's gaze, I took a step forward, my resolve unwavering. As I reached out to adjust the loosened ties of his cloak, a quiet sense of defiance settled within me.

"I heard the royal palace is l