The letter arrived at the Stefford household in Willowfen with the seal still intact, its crisp parchment carrying an air of urgency.
Norman's fingers trembled slightly as he broke the seal, unfolding the letter. His eyes moved rapidly over the neatly penned words, absorbing every line.
Beside him, Cecelie leaned forward, watching his expression with apprehension. "You believe this is wise, Norman? Challenging the royal family now, especially when we've lost everything?"
Norman's jaw tightened as he folded the letter and slipped it back into the envelope. His gaze turned sharp, a flicker of the old ambition lighting his weary eyes. "This is not just a challenge, Cecelie. It's an opportunity—a chance to reclaim everything we've lost. I was meant to rule. One mistake may have cost us dearly, but that doesn't mean we are doomed forever."
Cecelie's frown deepened. "You were ready to accept defeat, Norman. I saw it in you. What changed?"
