The long dining table stretched like a battlefield lined with polished silverware and untouched crystal glasses.

Everyone had taken their seats now, Raina sat beside Aaron, Margaret across from them, while Tris and Lucas sat together across the table. Elise took her place with effortless grace beside Mr. Kingston, who sat at the head of the table like a man trying to keep his kingdom from crumbling.

“Bring in the food,” Mr. Kingston said with a clap of his hands. A maid quickly nodded and ...