Chapter 132

The ballroom practically dripped with excess—crystal chandeliers, gilded decor, and an endless sea of smug faces. I smoothed out my dress nervously, forcing myself to stand tall, even as I felt the weight of all those eyes on me.

This event was starting to make my skin crawl, but I knew it was a necessary evil. Power and rebellion often started in places like this, masked by clinking glasses and hollow laughter. No one’s true intentions were apparent, including my own.

Jormun stood beside me, calm as ever, his gray eyes sweeping over the crowd like a predator sizing up his prey. I envied his composure. He was much better at navigating these circles, his icy façade a testament to just how long he had been immersed in them.

I, on the other hand, was turning into the type of person who preferred action over pleasantries. I wanted nothing more than to find Lovella and tear her apart. I wanted nothing more than to ensure my freedom and the freedom of others, once and fo