"He was clever, cruel, and dangerously charming."

The morning assembly had drawn a larger crowd than usual. Students packed the main courtyard, their conversations creating a constant hum that bounced off the stone walls. The council elders occupied the raised platform at the far end, seated in their carved chairs like judges presiding over a trial. Lady Katheris stood among them, her presence turning the platform into something that felt more throne than simple seating.

I'd felt the ...