EPISODE 23 — A PACT FOR A NEW TRIAL

(POV: Dorcha) After what feels like an eternity, the throne room doors groan open at last. The Grand Chamberlain steps out, stiff as protocol, and gestures for us to follow. Behind us, I can feel the Captain's eyes—sharp, suspicious, unblinking. We were right: King Ciallmhar and Queen Bànrion are anything but calm. Aileen walks forward. Stops before the twin thrones. Bows. We fall in beside her, mirroring the gesture. "Your Majesties…" she begins. The Queen answers first, her voice tight, her eyes shimmering. Even before she speaks, it's clear—our presence is the last thing she wanted. "What brings you here, Princess?" Aileen waits a moment. Almost… studying her. "You seem troubled, Your Majesty. We saw the black banner. Has something happened?" The Queen breaks. Just—breaks. Not a royal…