The celebration continued, but the joy had dimmed.
Alina stood beside Elric, her fingers tightly gripping his hand. Though the people cheered for her, she could feel Raelynn's gaze on her the entire time, like a knife pressing against her back.
"She's planning something," Alina whispered.
"I know," Elric replied, his jaw clenched. "But whatever it is, she won't hurt you again."
Later that evening, as twilight wrapped the castle in its blue veil, Raelynn requested a private audience with the king and Alina. Elric agreed—but only with guards present.
Raelynn entered gracefully, wearing a gown as black as the night sky. "I'm not here to fight," she began. "I simply want to talk."
Alina raised an eyebrow. "About what? Lies? Secrets? Or murder?"
Raelynn smiled faintly. "You are your mother's daughter."
"I take that as a compliment."
Elric stepped forward. "Say what you came to say, Raelynn."
Raelynn's smile faded. "This kingdom… it was mine. I raised Alina like a daughter. But suddenly, I'm cast as the villain?"
"You chose that path," Elric said coldly. "You tried to kill Lily. You lied for years."
Raelynn turned to Alina. "You'll learn that power isn't so easily shared. You may wear a crown, but people… people remember who ruled before."
Alina didn't flinch. "Let them remember. I'm not afraid of your shadow."
As Raelynn turned to leave, she paused at the door. "Be careful who you trust, Alina. Enemies don't always wear masks."
The door closed behind her, but the unease she left behind lingered like smoke.
Elric pulled Alina close. "We'll face her together. Whatever comes next."
Alina nodded, her heart pounding. She had her truth. She had Elric. And she was ready for whatever storm Raelynn brought next.