Cracks in the Empire

The first crack did not come with gunfire.

It came with doubt.

And doubt, Vera knew, was more dangerous than bullets.

⸻

The meeting hall was fuller than usual.

Not because attendance was required.

Because curiosity had replaced confidence.

Vera stood at the head of the long polished table, calm in black silk, her hair pulled back in a severe knot that made her look less like a woman and more like a verdict.

Nicolas stood slightly behind her, not overshadowing ...