The weight of the latest revelations hung heavily in the air as Damien returned to Winter's Crown. The intercepted letter from the conspirators' meeting in Havenreach had been clear: Calder's network still had powerful allies within the court, and their influence ran deeper than anyone had anticipated.
As Damien walked through the palace halls, his steel-gray eyes scanned every face, every corner. He knew better than to trust appearances—loyalty in the capital was as fleeting as the seasons, and betrayal could come from the least expected places.
Lady Erynn was waiting for him in the council chamber, her silver eyes sharp as always. She greeted him with a faint nod, gesturing for him to join her at the table where several documents were spread out.