The next morning, Selene began her investigation in earnest.
She had authority now. As Queen, she could access areas that had been restricted when she was a servant. Could ask questions that would have been suspicious before. Could search for evidence without raising alarms.
The archives were her first target. The same restricted section where Damian had told her proof existed. Where the cloaked figure had directed her months ago.
She went alone. Late at night when most of the castle slept. When guards were fewer and less attentive.
The archives were in the lower levels. Stone corridors. Ancient shelves. Documents dating back centuries.
The restricted section required a key. Only the King—now the Queen—had access. Selene used Damian's key. The one she'd kept. The one that felt wrong in her hand because he should be using it, not her.
