Chapter 8 - THE MAN WHO ORDERED HER SILENCE
Everett Harrow was arrested three weeks after Elara left the manor.
Not for his debts.
Those had already cost him his position.
He was arrested after investigators uncovered evidence that he had arranged years of unlawful confinement and suppressive treatment for his youngest daughter.
Dr. Alistair Voss disappeared before authorities could question him.
Elara received the news in Damian's library.
She sat very still.
“My father?”
Damian nodded.
“He is in custody.”
Her hands trembled.
“Will he be hurt?”
Damian looked at her.
“He will receive due process.”
Elara swallowed.
“He was cruel to me.”
“I know.”
“But I don't want him tortured.”
Damian's expression softened.
“Neither do I.”
She looked surprised.
Damian sat beside her.
“Justice isn't the same as revenge.”
Elara stared at him.
“People say you're ruthless.”
He smiled faintly.
“Sometimes I have been.”
“And now?”
Damian looked at her.
“Now I'm trying to be better.”
During questioning, Everett revealed a shocking secret.
Elara's mother had not been an ordinary wolf-born woman.
Her name was Selene Ardent.
She belonged to a hidden branch of the Moonborn line.
Everett had married her secretly after discovering her ancestry.
He believed her bloodline could strengthen his family's political position.
But when Selene became pregnant with Elara, Dr. Voss warned him that the child might awaken ancient abilities.
Everett panicked.
He feared the council would discover the truth.
He feared losing his territory.
And he feared Elara herself.
Selene died shortly after childbirth.
Everett claimed complications.
But records suggested Voss had been involved in her treatment.
Damian read the report in silence.
Then looked at Gideon.
“Find him.”
Gideon nodded.
“We will.”
Damian's eyes hardened.
“Alive.”
Gideon looked surprised.
May you like
Damian continued.
“I want answers.”
