Aria's POV
Something still wasn't sitting right.
Belleah was reckless, arrogant, spoiled — but not ambitious enough to orchestrate a coup. No, she was a pawn. And the North Duke, Allistair… he wanted something far bigger than status.
He wants the throne.
Everyone wanted power, yes — but only blood ties or political marriage could place someone in the direct line of succession. Something about that equation didn't match. Belleah marrying Darius would give Alistair influence… but to go this far? To attempt regicide?
What was he planning?
I paced the room, thoughts spiraling, when a firm knock sounded on the door.
"May I come in, Your Highness, the Empress?"
Aeric.
I straightened, calling, "Enter."
He stepped inside with that perfectly composed elegance of a noble taught from birth — polite smile, calculated posture, eyes too observant for comfort.
