Ch. 21 - Not What I thought

Gabe POV

I pressed on, taking advantage of this alone time I had with the Queen. I needed information, a way to help Sebastian, but I had no idea where to start.

"I know you've built walls, shutting out everyone you deemed unworthy, keeping only those who you felt deserved your protection," I said, letting the bitterness slip into my voice.

Her gaze sharpened, "Those worthy?" she echoed, a hint of challenge in her tone.

"I was born outside your walls, in the South," I replied, my voice steady despite the rage she was giving me. "During one of your raids, your soldiers took me to an orphanage, claiming it was for my safety. I've seen both worlds, inside and outside your so-called protection, Luna. It's cruel to decide who lives and who suffers, as you do." I completely lied about my origins but it was a believable story and got my point across.

"Most are grateful for the walls," she retorted, her voice tight. "I don't recall a single soul speaking ill of them."

"Who would dare tell a