Chapter 37. Power

Althea smiled softly at the Queen Mother as she raised her hand to accept the cup.

“Thank you for the tea, Your Highness,” she said with a gentle hum, her tone calm, almost serene.

Melva gasped softly and crawled forward on her knees, reaching out. “My Lad—”

But she froze when Althea gave her a quiet, reassuring glance.

Without another word, Althea brought the cup to her lips… and drank.

The Queen Mother’s thoughts screamed in disbelief.

‘She really drank it?! Just like that?! What is she up to now? Is Cain’s daughter truly as naive as they say?’

Althea set the empty cup down and slowly raised her eyes to meet the Queen Mother’s stunned expression.

“If only I could make amends…” she said softly. “If my life could bring back those my father destroyed… or those who died because of him… I would offer it without hesitation.”

She meant every word.

No, she couldn’t undo the past. But if there was any way, any