The throne hall was a cathedral of shadows and fire. Gold chandeliers burned above like a thousand suns, their flames caught in the mirrors that lined the pillars. The black marble floor reflected every light, every step, as though the court itself were watching. And today, every pair of eyes in that vast chamber was fixed on her.

Seraphina.

The new Queen.

Chains hidden beneath velvet.

Her gown was a river of scarlet that clung to her body like a lover’s hands. The neckline dipped low ...