The public execution grounds had not been used in years.

At dawn, the vast stone plaza of the capital city was already filled with people. Nobles stood beside commoners. Warriors in full armor lined the perimeter, their grim expressions.

Whispers spread through the crowd like a restless current, heavy with anticipation and unease. Everyone knew who would die today.

Lady Ava Stone. The former royal aide from one of the noble families. The woman was once trusted within the palace walls. And ...