Chapter 159: The Gambit

The moon hung low over the capital, casting long shadows across the cobblestone streets. The palace, illuminated by the glow of countless lanterns, seemed almost serene from the outside—a far cry from the turmoil brewing within. Kerrigan’s private chambers were quiet, save for the distant hum of activity from the banquet that had finally ended. She had managed to keep her composure through the long evening, but now, as she paced the length of the room, her thoughts were in chaos.

She had been holding her emotions in check since the King’s proposal, but the weight of his words was crushing her. Marry him? Become his queen? The thought had chilled her to the bone. The King’s offer was not just a marriage proposal; it was a bid to control her, to bind her influence to his throne, and to use her as a tool to solidify his power. But more than that, it was a direct threat—to her independence, her ambitions, and to the love she shared with Conor.

Kerrigan’s heart clenched as she glanced towa