Chapter 56. Truth Revealed

Celeste’s POV

Ayra was the first to break the tense silence, and the words she directed at Nora cut through the air like a blade. “Your father knew about the sacrifice,” she said quietly but firmly.

Nora froze, her expression shifting from confusion to disbelief. She staggered back a step and pressed a hand to her chest. “Wait… What… What are you saying?” she stammered, her voice trembling as she searched Ayra’s face for some sign of jest.

“Stop it, Ayra!” Cira’s voice rang out, sharp with urgency as she lunged forward, as if to physically stop her sister from speaking further.

But Ayra shook her head, determination hardening her features. “No,” she replied simply. “She needs to hear the truth. I’ve carried this secret in my heart for far too long. Sister, your father was aware of the sacrifice. The same goes for the king and every one of our elders. The mission to find the healing herbs… it was all a sham.”

Nora’s legs gave way beneath her, and