The One who Got Away

Born into wealth but starved of affection, Zylavore lived in the shadow of his parents' status-cared for only by Zakal, the quiet drow butler who became his sole protector. When Zylavore came out as transgender at nineteen, he expected confusion, maybe silence. Instead, he was cast out with nothing but a name he chose and a pouch of stolen gold from the only man who ever truly saw him.

Now twenty, Zylavore wanders through grimy streets and low-lit taverns, cloaked in silk and venom, trying to build a throne out of fear and charm. He pretends to be untouchable. He pretends not to miss anything. But anger clings to him like perfume, and shame burrows deeper with every step.

As whispers of his past trail him like ghosts-and a stranger begins watching him with knowing eyes-Zylavore finds himself standing at the edge of something dangerous: power, yes, but also the chance to be seen again. Truly seen.

And that terrifies him more than anything.