“Some villains are not born from hatred. They are born from hope that slowly becomes fear.”The letter lay unopened on the council table.No one touched it.No one trusted it.Outside, the kingdom continued to unravel.Markets closed early.Families whispered behind locked doors.Moon banners disappeared from windows overnight, while Crimson banners appeared where they had never flown before.The people were no longer choosing sides.They were choosing stories.And stories, Elara had learned, were far more dangerous than swords.⸻Riven stood at the war table, studying a map covered with colored pins.“If Lucien wanted to attack the capital,” he said, “he’s had at least three opportunities.”Kael frowned.“So why hasn’t he?”“That’s exactly what’s bothering me.”Elara looked up from the letter.“Because that was never his goal.”Three pairs of eyes turned toward her.“You think he’s waiting for something?”“I think…” she said slowly, “…he wants us to find something before he makes his
Last Updated : 2026-07-14 Read more