Chapter 9

Victor and I were savouring aged sanguine wine in the Obsidian family's council chamber. A heavy, oppressive atmosphere saturated the air. Marcus stood to the side, motionless as a statue.

Time passed slowly until the sound of footsteps broke the silence. Two Royal Guards entered, dragging the barely recognizable forms of Julian and Bella.

In that instant, seeing his son in such a wretched state,