Not This Time,My Lord

tugged at the dress's clasps. The fabric was soft and expensive-rose pink with silver-threaded fire lilies-but it didn't feel like hers. The girl behind her couldn't have been older than fifteen.

here. Smile for him at least." Elaria looked toward the doors. A herald stepped forward and slammed his staff to the floor. "Messenger of the Northern Crown approaches!" The court shifted. Even the nobles pretending to be bored sat straighter. The man who entered wore dark robes trimmed with wolf fur. Pale. Stone-faced. He carried a velvet-covered chest and bowed low before her. "My lady," he said. "Lord Kael sends his regards. And his offering." He placed the chest at her feet and lifted the velvet. Gold coins. Ruby bangles. And a dagger the color of smoke. Elaria reached for the blade. The hilt was wrapped in black leather, laced with silver veins. Elegant. Light. The edge, though, was real. She glanced up. "Is this a threat or a gift?" The messenger didn't blink. "It's a sign of respect. Lord Kael believes you're someone who knows how to defend herself." Amira leaned in, too bright. "How romantic. A lady with her own weapon-how progressive." Elaria slid the blade into her sleeve. "Tell him I understand." "The wedding will be held on the new moon," the messenger said. "Preparations are underway. You're expected at the Northern Palace soon after." He bowed again and left. Whispers surged like wind through dry leaves. Elaria ignored them. Her hand stayed on the dagger's hilt. Then the doors opened again. No announcement. No warning. Just Seren, arriving like a storm. She moved across the court like she was born to cut th