Althea’s knees weakened the moment the Queen Mother exited the room, her composure finally breaking. Melva quickly caught her by the arm and helped her stay upright.

Uriel’s expression was unreadable as he studied her. “My Lady,” he said slowly, disbelief lacing his tone, “are you really that confident you can heal Princess Riela?”

Before Althea could even answer, a voice thundered from behind them. “Leave. All of you.”

Everyone froze. Gavriel’s tone left no room for ...