Chapter 10 — The Trap Behind Familiar Walls

Gray dawn seeped through the arrow slit, painting the watchtower stones a sickly blue. Ophelia rose from her cot when Ash whined and pawed the door. Outside in the corridor metal boots clanged—two guards, voices hushed.

“Morning patrol?” she called.

Keys rattled. The door swung open to reveal Caroline in a velvet riding suit, guards at her flanks. Her smile dripped cordial poison.

“Good news travels,” she purred. “Welcome home, Ophelia. The pack has missed you.”

Ash bared his teeth. A guard lifted a cudgel, but Ophelia laid a calming hand on the dog’s scruff. “Thank you for the greeting, my lady. Does the council summon me?”

Caroline’s gaze flicked over the room. “Soon. First—let’s be sure you’re comfortable.” She strolled in, fingertips grazing the dusty shelf, then glanced back at her escorts. “Search every corner. Our guest may have brought… souvenirs.”

Ophelia’s pulse quickened. “What do you expect to find?”