Chapter 99 Unmasked: The Curse, The Crown, And The Mate

• “In fact,” the Queen begins as the entire room falls into an expectant hush, “today is not only the best birthday I’ve ever had… but the happiest day of my life.”
• I look up at her, my vision already blurred with tears.
• “Because I’ve finally been reunited with my daughter.” Her voice cracks, and she takes a moment to look at me before continuing. “Our lovely Maya—she was taken from us so cruelly. Branded a blood-born omen by ruthless elders. They claimed that if she wasn’t sacrificed before the next red moon, our kingdom would fall. They predicted plagues, droughts, death. And so, they demanded her life.”