Daciana

I don’t want to be here.

The thought pulses through my mind as I stand in the throne room, spine rigid, hands clenched. All I want to do is grieve my family in peace, but it seems that’s not going to happen. I have to face the Umbra Council and defend myself against these false charges.

The throne room is packed. Nobles line the walls, their faces ranging from contemptuous to calculating. They know exactly why they’re here. Their stares press down on my shoulders like a physical weight.

This is a spectacle, and I’m the entertainment.

Kieran stands beside me, his presence a solid anchor in the chaos....