Chapter 67

The second gunshot tore through the chamber, its deafening crack reverberating off the stone walls. The ringing in Liliette’s ears blended with the relentless pounding of rain, creating a cacophony that swallowed her senses. The acrid stench of gunpowder hung heavy in the damp air, searing her throat and forcing a cough from her tense body. Vlad’s hand, steady and unyielding, slid from her wrist to her waist, anchoring her as her knees faltered beneath her.

Her revolver slipped from her trembling fingers, hitting the floor with a dull clang that reverberated through the chamber. The sound barely registered before a sharp, splitting pain tore through her skull. She froze, her gaze locking on the scene before her.

“Ro…” she choked out, her voice cracking as her brother began to collapse.