Crimson Rose Queen

A voice shattered the standoff: "Empress Eleanor?"

Sebastian.

Isabella whimpered. So be it. My blade flashed—a crimson seam opened on her neck.

Matron Stone cowered behind Sebastian as Isabella collapsed at his feet, sobbing: "She tried to slaughter me!"

Sebastian's crimson gaze pinned me. "Confess your crimes."

I bared my teeth. "Guilty as charged. I held a knife to your mistress's throat. Sentence me."

Silence choked the room—until Lily lunged forward, prostrating at Sebastian's boots: "Lies! Lady Isabella ordered the attack! The Empress fought to survive!"

Isabella's scream was pure rage: "Execute the traitor!"

Sebastian's eyes never left mine—a silent storm raging in those bloody depths. His fingers brushed the silver locket beneath his tunic...