Though her words painted a grim picture, Rhaegar didn't flinch. The weight of her warning settled heavily on his shoulders, but he steadied himself. None of what she described sounded remotely tolerable, yet he knew he had no choice.
For nine long years, he had lived in the shadows, hiding from the world. And what had come of it? Nothing but loss and regret.
His amber eyes hardened with confidence. He was done running. Too many people had suffered while he clung to a safer, cowardly existence. It was time to step into his destiny, no matter the cost.
You were meant for greater things, Tayiid's voice echoed in his mind, sending an involuntary shiver down his spine. Was he really? He wouldn't know until he tried. He had promised that to Laesh—and, most importantly, to himself.
I am standing here now because Laesh, Tayiid, and Lorelai were brave in my place. It's time to change that.
