Evelyn stood at the edge of the capital, her heart pounding against her ribs. From a distance, the grand palace loomed, its white towers shining under the moonlight, just as she remembered. Yet, instead of comfort, the sight filled her with a storm of emotions pain, anger, and a thirst for justice.
"I never thought I'd set foot here again," she whispered, her fingers tightening around the cloak that hid her identity.
Ronan, standing beside her, glanced at the palace with sharp eyes. "It's not the same anymore, Evelyn. And neither are you."
His words were true. She was no longer the naive empress who had loved the emperor blindly. She was reborn with power, wisdom, and a mission to uncover the truth.
