Chapter 120

Emily’s POV

The trial left me shaking.

The courtyard was a mess of noise and movement. Rogues were everywhere, watching me like my suffering was nothing more than entertainment for them.

I had barely stepped off the ritual platform, walking through the crowd of rogues as they parted for me on my way back to the castle, when a hand clamped around my wrist.

I jerked back, ready to fight.

“Five minutes. Lower floor restroom.”

The whisper was gone as soon as it hit my ear. The person vanished into the crowd before the guards even turned their heads.

Ryan.

My heart began to drum a frantic rhythm. The rogue beside me shoved my shoulder.

“Move.”

I forced my expression to stay flat. I didn't look back. I didn't scan the crowd. I just kept walking. We passed through the massive black gates, and the sudden warmth of the castle felt heavy against my skin.

As we crossed the lower corridor, I caught a glimpse o