The silence that followed Eleanor’s words felt heavier than the steel walls surrounding the Founders’ Chamber.
No one breathed.
No one dared to look away.
Adrian stood frozen beneath the harsh white lights, his gaze fixed on the older woman who had stepped from the shadows. She carried herself with effortless authority, as though every person in the room existed because she had allowed it.
Victor Kingston lowered his head.
The council members did the same.
Even the armed guards straightened instinctively.
Only Adrian and Elias remained standing without acknowledging her.
Eleanor noticed.
A faint smile touched her lips.
“So much like your father.”
Her voice was warm enough to sound grandmotherly, yet every word carried the weight of command.
“I had hoped at least one of you woul
