CHAPTER 20 :Shadows in the Court

Seraphina had always known that power did not guarantee loyalty.

But she had underestimated just how deep the betrayal ran.

The whispers from the tavern haunted her. Someone was fueling Damaris's rebellion from within the court itself. And if they spoke of a "true heir," it meant the conspiracy was far more dangerous than she had feared.

She had to act—before the throne was taken from her hands.

The Traitors Among Them

Back in the palace, Seraphina summoned her council. She watched each of them carefully—the nobles, the generals, the advisors who had once served Aldric.

"Damaris's rebellion is growing stronger," she said. "And someone in this room is helping him."

A tense silence fell. Some shifted in their seats. Others kept their gazes steady.

Kael stood beside her, hand on the hilt of his sword. He was ready to strike at her command.

Seraphina's voice was cold. "I will uncover the traitors, one way or another."

Then she turned to Lord Garran, one of Aldric's former military commanders. "You led the eastern legions under my father. What do you know of Damaris's forces?"

Garran hesitated—just for a moment.

Seraphina saw it.

And so did Kael.

"You already know, don't you?" Kael said, stepping forward. "Damaris has spies here. And you're protecting them."

Garran's face hardened. "I swore an oath to this empire before you were born, girl. You think you can erase Aldric's rule overnight?"

Seraphina's power flared beneath her skin, but she did not let it consume her. "No," she said. "But I can end yours."

With a flick of her wrist, the guards seized him. Garran struggled, but he was outnumbered.

"You will tell me everything," Seraphina said, her voice like steel. "Or you will share Aldric's fate."

For the first time, fear flashed in Garran's eyes.

The Confrontation with Damaris

The truth came quickly after that.

Damaris had an army waiting in the western provinces, reinforced by Aldric's most loyal generals. And worse—he had been promised something.

Or rather—someone.

"The true heir," Garran muttered under his breath as he was dragged away.

Seraphina's blood ran cold.

There was no heir. Aldric had only one child.

Unless…

"Kael," she said, turning to him. "We ride for the west. Tonight."

Kael nodded. He had seen the fire in her eyes before—but this time, it was brighter than ever.

Damaris would not live to see the dawn.

And if there was another heir to the throne—

Seraphina would find them first.

To Be Continued…