The palace seemed bustling that morning, filled with the vibrant energy of loved ones reuniting. First, it was the arrival of Alpha Devin, followed by Mira and Ryan, and then Doctor Max and Kara. Everybody seemed to be basking in a happy moment, except for Nora, whose sorrowful eyes seemed to hold a deep sadness.

King Derek had invited her to join them downstairs, but she had locked herself in her room, hiding behind the pretense that she wasn't feeling well. As she lay in bed, her heart felt like it was being torn apart by a jumble of emotions. She thought about Layla's disappearance and how nothing seemed to...