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Ginevra

"I thought you said he died!" Astrid squeals, her gaze darting back to Sinclair. He's locked in deep conversation with Ethan and Naomi while we wait for the portal behind the castle to be prepared for use.

Sinclair had whisked me out of the hall, only to return and demand from Queen Zephyr and Rune, Where's the damn portal in this place?

Rune had responded with a grunt, but Queen Zephyr had been far more obliging, telling him it was behind the castle, but needed some time to be prepared.

"Turns out Alaric's a horrible liar," I mutter, glancing towards my father. He's conversing with King Fenrir, making requests to have Sinclair detained for what he did.

But King Fenrir has other things to worry about. Like a son whose sudden appearance just made his life complicated. Like the council now questioning whether Sinclair's claim is valid and there's talk of a duel to determine the rightful heir. Like Queen Zephyr's silent rage. Like the disbelief and hurt shimmering in Ru