As night fell over the kingdom, the city of Lorrence was quiet, but the air felt charged, as though it were holding its breath. James stood at the balcony overlooking the central courtyard, where Rhys's address was set to take place the following day. The flickering torchlights cast long, eerie shadows over the stone walls, and the tension in the air was palpable.
"We've done everything we can," James said quietly to Pippy, who stood beside him. "Now it's just a matter of hoping the people are willing to listen."
Pippy folded her arms, her expression thoughtful. "They're angry. Rightfully so, after everything that's happened. But I believe in Rhys. He's the kind of leader who can reach them, if they give him a chance."
James nodded, though his gaze was distant, fixed on the horizon. "I hope you're right. If this goes wrong... we'll have a lot more blood on our hands."
