The night had fallen heavy over the city, the streets below the villa illuminated only by flickering lampposts and distant neon signs. Inside the fortress-like estate, Elena stood by the grand window, her silhouette framed by the cold moonlight. Her eyes traced the labyrinth of alleys and shadows where enemies lurked, waiting for a single misstep.

The weight of the crown pressed down on her shoulders. Every decision felt like a gamble, every alliance a knife’s edge between salvation and destruction.

A soft voice broke through the silence. “You’re thinking too much again.”

Elena turned to find Enzo standing behind her, concern etched into his rugged features. His dark eyes...