Chapter 21: Chapter 21

"What-what… how could you?" Althea's trembling hand struck Darian's shoulder, her fingers quivering with a mix of anger and desperation. "How could you? You said…" A single tear trickled down her cheek as her voice wavered.

Darian, unyielding and unmoved, met her tearful gaze. "How could I what?" His voice was a chilling whisper, devoid of any compassion.

Althea's sobs threatened to overtake her words. "You promised,King Darian." She took a shaky breath and pleaded, "You promised that you wouldn't erase their memories."

In that moment, the enormity of her despair washed over her. It felt as though the walls of the extravagant bridal chamber were closing in. She knew the consequences of Darian's decision, how it could reduce her fellow brides to empty shells. Her heart ached for them, and she couldn't comprehend how Darian, the man she had danced with, had shared moments with, could be so merciless.