[Imperial Forest—Ambush—Lavinia's POV]
The forest seemed to exhale around us, leaves whispering like conspirators. Every shadow felt alive, every rustle a warning. My hand gripped the hilt of my sword, cold steel steady against my palm, while Marshi's low growl rumbled through the carriage, sensing danger long before we did.
Rey, Sir Haldor, and Ravick fanned out behind me, eyes sharp, hands hovering over weapons. Steel glinted under their cloaks, muscles coiled like springs ready to strike.
The assassins' horses stamped impatiently, hooves shaking the earth, faces hidden behind dark masks. Their leader leaned slightly forward, a faint sneer tilting his head, mocking the audacity of a Crown Princess daring to stand before them.
I inhaled sharply, adrenaline sharpening every sense. This wasn't just a fight—it was a declaration. Every slash, every parry would prove that the blood of emperors ran through my veins—and that any viper daring to bite me would regret it.
