~ Isabella’s POV

After the meeting ended, I felt drained but resolute. The council’s discussions and strategies weighed heavily on my mind, but one concern eclipsed them all: Kate. My heart ached with guilt as I thought of her—alone, possibly suffering, because of me. She had stayed loyal even when I didn’t deserve it, and I had left her behind in Lucian’s clutches. I needed to make things right.

Back in my room, I wasted no time. I summoned a handful of trusted guards, men and women I knew would carry out my orders without question or hesitation. As they assembled before me, I paced the room, struggling to maintain...