The word left Thalia's mouth and everything changed.
Chairs scraped against stone as everyone stood. The Morales warriors reached for weapons. The Sharia guards shifted into defensive stances.
Aurelius was already standing, his hand going to the sword at his waist. He drew it in one smooth motion and the blade cut clean through the scabbard like it was paper. The leather fell in two pieces to the floor.
His eyes blazed with rage as he pointed the weapon at Elder Kaeso.
Elder Kaeso's smile widened further, becoming something that didn't belong on the elderly man's face. Twisted cruelty. He climbed onto the table and stood straight, the wood creaking under his weight as he spread both arms wide. He turned in a slow circle, taking in everyone watching him.
His eyes found Aurelius first.
