Ren looked up at Kai, her voice a cracked whisper. "How could you let this happen?"
"This is what a true King does to protect his people from a royal menace," He replied. "This is retribution, and Josa chose it of her own will."
Gloria reached for Ren's hand and held it tightly. "He's right. Sometimes… you just can't save everyone."
"We're on the verge of war, this huge rift in the court…" Ren murmured, her voice distant, strained.
Gloria shook her head, her tone resolute. "No. We're already in it. And they…" she glanced toward the weeping minister and Rebedina, "...they've been helping the enemy all along."
A hollow ache opened in Ren's chest. This wasn't the justice she had wanted for Ara. Not like this. And for Josa. The girl had lost everything. How could anyone expect her to choose peace? Or forgive Ara.
