Chapter 431

"When humans lose their sanity, they become far more terrifying than any beast." Liam's voice was heavy with exhaustion.

Ryan noticed the shadows in Liam's eyes, remembering how Adrian had betrayed him. Stepping forward, he placed a hand over his heart.

"General Blackwood, I swear on my life—I'll never turn on you like that traitor Adrian. My loyalty is yours, without question."

A flicker of warmth crossed Liam's face. "I know I can trust you."

"Thank you, sir," Ryan replied solemnly.

The office lights burned bright into the night, cutting through the darkness like beacons.

Evelyn woke with puffy eyes, her face still damp from tears. After splashing cold water on her swollen cheeks, she threw on a simple sundress, slung her crossbody bag over one shoulder, and tied her hair into a messy ponytail.

Rosalind and Nathaniel were already at breakfast when she descended the stairs. Rosalind stood, but Evelyn spoke first. "I need to go to Blackwood Manor. Come with me."

Rosalind blinked in confusion while Nathaniel nearly choked on his coffee. "Cassandra, our flight to Solterra leaves this afternoon. Where else could you possibly need to go?"

Evelyn paused at the doorway, her voice firm. "I'm going to convince Donovan to come with us for treatment."

"Why?" Rosalind asked.

"Solterra's traditional medicine has cured illnesses modern doctors call terminal. I've spent weeks researching—acupuncture, herbal therapy, even qi cultivation. There are documented recoveries."

Rosalind's eyes lit up. "That's incredible. I'll help you persuade him."

"I'm coming too," Nathaniel added, wiping his mouth.

As they stepped out of Wright Manor, Rosalind went to fetch the car. Nathaniel shot Evelyn a sideways glance. "Even if he refuses, we can't miss that flight."

Evelyn smirked. "If he says no, I'll sedate him and smuggle him aboard in a suitcase."

Nathaniel laughed, though they both knew airport security would never allow an unconscious passenger.

The engine purred as Rosalind pulled up. They sped away, leaving the manor's iron gates behind.

Five minutes into the drive, Rosalind's grip tightened on the wheel. "Cassandra, check the rearview. We've got company."

Evelyn and Nathaniel twisted in their seats. Two black SUVs trailed them, maintaining perfect distance.

"Who the hell—?" Nathaniel began.

Evelyn exhaled in recognition. "Military plates. It's Liam's detail."

Rosalind's knuckles whitened. "Cassandra... General Blackwood called me yesterday."

"Liam?" Evelyn leaned forward, pulse quickening. "Why? What happened?"

"He warned us to stay alert. Julian and Adrian risked crossing into Aldenria. They're planning something."

The names slithered down Evelyn's spine like ice. A storm was coming.