KIERYGAN'S POV
I found myself in the dining hall for the first time in what felt like weeks, the steady murmur of my council and the clatter of utensils filling the air. I had long avoided this table, preferring the quiet of my study or the solitude of my wing. But today… today, I chose to be here.
Everyone was gathered, but the seat to my right was vacant—the one that should have belonged to Eirlys.
“Kierygan,” Mirael purred with a playful smile as she eased into her seat, her eyes sparkling. “I’m so glad you decided to grace us with your presence this morning.”
I gave her a brief nod and lifted my cup, sipping the bitter brew. Her lips parted as if to say more, but I turned away when a movement caught my eye, a figure descending the staircase. I thought it might be Eirlys. I hoped it
