Desperate Choices ( 353 )

Zephyra sat on her throne, her expression unreadable. Her long nails tapped lightly against the golden armrest.

Her royal advisor stepped forward, bowing gracefully and holding out a sealed document.

"Your Highness, the delegation from the Halfling Kingdom has arrived."

Zephyra's lips curled slightly at the mention of the Halflings—always neutral, always the middle ground. If any kingdom wanted to send messages, trade, or negotiate with Amazarak, they had to go through them.

She took the report and scanned its contents. Then she paused, her eyes narrowing.

"So… she was captured."

She didn't need to say the name; her advisor understood immediately.

"Yes, my Queen. Armand has filed an official complaint, with proof that Princess Zania and the other warriors—"

The advisor hesitated before continuing carefully, "—were the ones who attacked first."

Silence filled the room.