The moment Alina put the folded letter beside the vial, the entire hall erupted in chaos. Gasps rippled through the hall like waves. Several nobles stood up from their seats, pointing at the vial in front of them. The atmosphere in the room which had been cold just a minute ago, suddenly transformed into shock, fear, and panic.
"What is that?"
"What game is she playing now?"
"Poison? In the royal court?"
King Lucien slammed his hand on the armrest of his throne.
"Silence!" he roared, his face flushed with fury and confusion. "What are you trying to do? Explain yourself! Right now!"
Alina glanced at Dorian and he took a step back. She then turned to look at Austin who gave her a small encouraging nod.
Then she took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. And looked straight at Lord Valdren, who looked a little unsettled.
