Elena's POV

After she left, I locked the door and sat again, staring at the cracked vial. My mind raced through possibilities.

If the silver compound was used during the banquet, it meant whoever planned it wanted the Council weakened or compromised. Perhaps the rogue factions were testing something. Perhaps it was another step in Elder Hayes’s games.

But if the scent was traced back to me, I would be finished.

I needed proof before they turned the blame my way. Proof of who tampered with ...