Chapter 1130

“Now,” Amara said as she slowed to a stop beneath the twisting shadows of ancient trees, “you can tell me where exactly you want to go.” Only once they had ventured deep into the winding heart of the garden—far from the eyes and ears of the banquet hall—did she ask. The air was heavy with the scent of damp moss and jasmine, and the pale moonlight filtered through the shifting leaves like silver thread. Hazel turned to her, her dark eyes luminous and steady. Her voice, low and unwavering, carried just one word: “Ancestral Hall.” Just minutes earlier, Hazel had weighed the option of incapacitating Amara—just one swift strike, and she could have navigated the estate on her own terms. But she had ultimately stayed her hand. The truth was, the layout of the estate's garden was too treacherous, too clever in its design. Even with her training and sharp memory, she might not have made it through unscathed. And strangely, despite Amara’s sharp tongue and guarded nature, Hazel sensed no ill wil