The greenhouse shimmered with light filtered through crystal panels—each one slightly fogged by the rain outside. White lilies swayed as if listening, the scent of damp earth clinging to every breath.
But Evelyne's focus wasn't on the flowers.
It was on the presence watching from beyond them.
She turned her head, sharp. "Who's there?"
Prince Cael's expression shifted instantly, stepping protectively in front of her.
Silence.
Then—
A figure stepped out from behind the ivy wall.
Soaked cloak. Dark hood. A silver mask.
Cael's hand went to his sword, but Evelyne's hand on his wrist stopped him.
The masked person bowed. "Lady Evelyne. Or shall I say… Empress, once executed."
Her eyes narrowed. "You know who I am."
"I know what you will become."
Before Cael could speak, the figure flicked a card through the air. It landed softly at Evelyne's feet.
A black calling card. The mark of an underground faction: The Black Veil.
The masked figure's voice was calm. "There are those in the Empire who remember what truly happened. If you seek revenge, find us."
And with a gust of wind, the figure disappeared into the storm.
---
That night, Evelyne sat in her chambers, card in hand.
Cael had left reluctantly, promising guards. Promising protection.
But she knew—this wasn't something palace guards could protect her from.
The past wasn't dead.
And now, someone had invited her to dig it up.
She tucked the card into her sleeve and whispered:
"Then let's see who really buried me."
---
To be continued...