Chapter 74

Seris’s POV

The chamber was dimly lit by a single brazier, its flickering light casting long, dancing shadows across rough stone walls. I found myself bound to a stiff wooden chair, the grain pressing uncomfortably into my back. Before me stood Saelis, flanked by four burly men whose laughter rattled the silence like chains.

“What the hell have you done?!” I shouted, tugging uselessly at my restraints. Each mocking guffaw drove home how powerless I was. Physically, I had no chance against her trained strength—and yet, if I showed weakness, I’d lost even the little dignity I had left. I gritted my teeth, refusing to give her the satisfaction.

“How dare you?!” I added, though my voice quavered.

Saelis wiped a tear from her eye, part genuine fury, part cruel theatrics. Her men chuckled, waiting for me to break. I wouldn’t.

“So what have I done to deserve the wonderful honor of your betrayal?” I asked once the laughter died down.

She leaned for