The next morning, Althea was escorted to the South Palace, where political affairs, lawmaking, and meetings with regional Alphas were usually conducted.

She was led directly to the trial court hall.

Althea walked with her chin held high. Her heart pounded, but she refused to show fear. She had lived with hatred all her life. What was one more trial?

The vast chamber was already filled. Nobles, ministers, and visiting Alphas sat in their designated seats, their gazes sharp and filled with ...