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Contd

Queen Yeri.

The door shuts behind me and a shiver of apprehension runs down her spine. My eye sweeps over the first space, taking in the austere decor that reflects Ozar's temperament— the first thing I encounter is his grand receiving room. Beyond it are a series of corridors, each one lined with dark wood and lit by glowing sconces.

A large fireplace dominates one wall, its mantle is lined with ancient artifacts and trophies. The scent of burning cedarwood lingers in the air and to the left, there’s a massive oak desk. The leather-bound chair is imposing, built for a man of his stature.

I move cautiously. My footsteps are barely making a sound as I cross the threshold into the corridor that leads to his bedchamber. Asher's words about Ozar's bloodline reverberates in my mind and it heightens my unease. In the bedroom, there are velvet drapes cascading down from the windows. I stare at the imposing bed at the centre—its sheets are ruffled, as if Ozar had been lying there only mo