Chapter 3

I helped them to their feet, guilt gnawing at me.

"It was my stubbornness that let all of you down," I admitted, my voice low but steady.

"Better late than never," Sir Lyon said, his eyes bright with determination. "The court is in chaos. Prince Daniel may have followers, but his hold is unstable. If Your Highness issues a rallying cry, your loyal supporters will come to you in full force."

For two hours, we discussed in secret, hammering out a detailed plan to reclaim the throne.

By the time I saw the officials safely out, the first pale light…