“Lady Hilda… is no longer human.”

Wellington’s words hung in the air, laden with gravity.

There was a flicker of fear in his eyes as he spoke, and the mere mention of Hilda’s name caused several of the Naga observing from the pond to recoil in alarm, vanishing beneath the water’s surface.

Julius and the Maehwa Palace Lord exchanged looks, sensing the weight of Wellington’s statement, and focused intently on his explanation.

“What do you mean? Explain clearly,” Theo demanded, his voice sharp.

Wellington hesitated before responding.

“Before I go into that, let me explain this place first. Theo, do …