Chapter 88 Whispers In The Dark

• The second day of the Light Festival bloomed with even greater splendor than the first. Musicians wandered between colorful stalls selling everything from honeyed pastries to delicate blown glass ornaments. Children darted between adults' legs, clutching wooden toys and sugar-dusted treats, their laughter mixing with the melodic strains of harps and flutes.
• Bobby moved through the celebration, her crown catching the afternoon sunlight as she paused at various vendor stalls. The visiting Alphas had multiplied overnight—delegations from neighboring territories eager to witness the kingdom's recovery firsthand. Each conversation required careful navigation, every smile a deliberate diplomatic choice.
• "Your Majesty," Alpha McCallister Thornfield approached with a shallow bow. "The improvements to your southern border defenses are remarkable. My scouts report increased patrols and fortified checkpoints."