Chapter 19. The Council’s Ultimatum

They didn’t even let her change.

When the summons came, Neriah was still wrapped in bloodied bandages, the cut from the assassin’s blade barely closed. She stood barefoot in the cold corridor, pulse steady, eyes unreadable.

Caius arrived first.

“You’re still healing,” he said tightly.

“I’m still breathing.”

“This isn’t a hearing. It’s a decision,” he said.

“I know.”

He stared at her, and for a brief second, Neriah saw the fear in his eyes—not for her life. For his own. Because if the bond held… and she died… He did too.

***

The Council’s chamber had changed. The dais was lower. The masks were darker. The Moon Priestess stood farther back, her mouth a thin line.

The central Elder stepped forward. The High Seat. His voice was cold as ever.

“Neriah Vale. The Council has reviewed the events of the last two nights. You were attacked within the sacred grounds. Witnesses confirm your survival was… not natural.”

Neriah