Rhynera could be seen well dressed in her fine attire, silk flowing softly around her body, jewels resting neatly against her skin. She looked untouched by the chaos spreading through the realm, even though it was clear that the whole palace was far from a state fit for feasts or celebration. The halls were quiet, tense, filled with unease.
Lumina had been sleeping for days.
The poison in her body refused to loosen its grip, and no matter how many times Alexis had sent word, ordered messengers, or even raised his voice in fury, Ashen continued to refuse to answer the King's summons. He did not come. He did not bow. He did not explain.
And in that silence, opportunity was born.
Rhynera saw it clearly.
After all, her lovely mother-in-law was sick as well.
