Elena’s POV

The moment Elder Chen saw me step back into the banquet hall, the last trace of restraint vanished from his face.

His jaw tightened, eyes sharpening as if he had finally found the target he’d been waiting for.

Without hesitation, he raised his hand.

In it was the brooch.

The bird-shaped design glittered under the chandelier, its craftsmanship exquisite even at a distance. He held it up high, as though the weight of gold and gemstones alone could crush ...