Chapter 407: The Unseen Power Shift

Christiana Blackwood

I had seen many things in my life—deception, betrayal, power plays. But nothing had prepared me for this.

My mother had just claimed the throne.

Not as a regent. Not as an advisor. But as the ruler.

And the worst part?

Classic let her.

I watched the council meeting from my place near the back, observing the way the nobles whispered among themselves, the way some of them looked uneasy while others looked intrigued.

They hadn't expected this.

Neither had I.

A Dangerous Move

When the session ended, I made my way to Mother's chambers without hesitation.

The guards at her door hesitated before letting me through. Smart men. They could already sense the shift in power.

I found her standing by the window, her back to me, looking down at the palace grounds.

"You didn't even hesitate," I said, folding my arms.

She didn't turn. "Why should I?"

I took a step closer. "Because this was never the plan."

Now she turned, her eyes sharp. "The plan? Do you think I would sit back and watch everything your father built be thrown into uncertainty?"

I clenched my jaw. "Classic is the king, not you."

Her lips curved slightly. "Then why didn't he stop me?"

I exhaled sharply. "You backed him into a corner. If he challenged you, it would make him look weak."

She tilted her head slightly. "So what do you suggest he does now?"

I had no answer.

Because she was right.

Mother had secured her power in a way no one could easily challenge. Classic would have to either completely submit or rise up and take what was his.

And the worst part?

I didn't know if he would.