The kingdom of Lorrence was in ruins. The chaotic aftermath of the Queen's execution left a broken city full of anger, confusion, and fear. James stood in the center of the once-majestic courtyard, the crowd slowly dispersing after witnessing the horrific hangings. The streets were thick with tension, and the air felt oppressive, as if Zarathros's influence was clawing its way into the kingdom from the shadows.
"We need to leave," Cherry said, her wings flicking nervously. "This place is about to descend into anarchy."
James shook his head. "No, not yet. There's someone who still has a claim to the throne. The son of Lady Seraphina. If we leave now, Lorrence will fall into darkness."
Pippy glanced toward the crumbling castle. "You think he's alive? With all this chaos, I wouldn't blame him for hiding."
"He's alive," James replied, his voice firm. "And we need to find him before someone else does."
