Daphne's POV
The pounding on my door dragged me from restless sleep, each strike hammering against my skull like a death knell. I fumbled for my phone in the darkness. Five thirty in the morning. The relentless knocking continued, urgent and demanding.
"Enter." My voice cracked with exhaustion. "This better be worth waking me."
Isla slipped inside, her usually composed demeanor shattered. Even in the weak dawn light seeping through my blinds, I could see how pale she'd become. Her fingers knotted together nervously.
"Luna Daphne." She struggled to steady her voice. "Two sentinels wait outside. They insist on escorting you to the elders for immediate trial."
The announcement struck me like ice water. I pushed myself upright, forcing my expression to remain neutral while my pulse thundered in my ears.
Trial.
So soon.
I had expected weeks to maneuver behind the scenes. To solidify my alliance with Alpha Benedict. To gather ammunition against my accusers.
