The Elder Council chamber slowly emptied, its ancient stone halls echoing with layered conversations. Some congratulatory, some calculating.
Raphael had been intercepted almost immediately by a group of elder council members, all eager to shake his hand, clap his shoulder, and loudly declare how “refreshing” and “stable” his candidacy was. But he was still quite reserve on the matter, not giving his final say to confirm his participation.
Riana gave him a small look that said I’ll wait nearby, and Raphael nodded back, mind already half-linked to hers in a familiar, reassuring hum.
She turned a corner toward the wide marble corridor that led to the exit.
And stopped.
Miles Gray stepped directly into her path. He whispered, “Hello, my darling”
His predatory ease to his po
