Chapter 133

VALERIA’S POV The grand courtyard of the packhouse had been transformed overnight. Silken banners in royal shades of deep blue and silver draped over the high walls, the crest of the ruling family embroidered into the fabric with shimmering gold thread. The stone pathway leading to the ceremonial dais was lined with tall torches, their flames flickering even in the daylight, casting an eerie glow over the space. Every inch of the courtyard had been polished and perfected, down to the rows of warriors standing at attention in their finest ceremonial uniforms. The entire event was meant to be a display of loyalty—a carefully curated spectacle to please the royals. Dimitri had spared no expense, ensuring that the finest food, the strongest warriors, and the most impressive hospitality were on full display. Yet beneath the grandeur, an unspoken tension simmered, thick and palpable in the air. I stood at the edge of the gathered crowd, blending in as much as I could, my eyes scanning the ar