Chapter 18 · The Crown Ledger

"Open it."

I shoved the ledger across the stone table. Prince Aldric didn't move. He stood on the other side, hands loose at his sides, blade still within reach. The vault chamber was cold. No windows. One door. Locked from the inside.

"You first," he said.

"I already know what's in there."

"Then you don't need me to open it."

I slammed my palm on the leather cover. "Stop playing games. Your father's dead. Halrik owns half the council. And this—" I tapped the ledger, "—this is the only thing that proves who funded the Pits."

His jaw tightened. "You dragged me down here to show me evidence I already commissioned?"

The air went thin.

"What?"

"I funded the investigation." His voice was flat. "Six months ago. Before the coup attempt. I wanted to know where Halrik's money came from."

I didn't let go of the ledger. "You're lying."

"Am I?" He stepped closer. The torchlight caught the edge of his collar. Royal seal. Still wearing it. Still pretending he had authority. "Page forty-seven. Third column. My signature's right there."

I flipped it open. My hands were steady. My pulse wasn't.

Page forty-seven.

Third column.

His signature.