Elena’s POV

The rain fell softly, draping the palace grounds in a quiet, persistent drizzle.

The air smelled of damp earth and stone, and every step I took seemed to echo the unease knotting my chest.

I walked slowly, my coat damp at the hem, my umbrella half-forgotten in my hand. The world felt muted, almost unreal, as I approached the house.

Uncle was already there, striding through the foyer with his usual calm, his expression unreadable as he entered.

“Uncle.” My voice was ...