41
When Jak returned to the palace, it was as if he’d never left, all signs of the attack gone. The servants had cleared away the damage. It felt as if there’d been no atrocity here. He left his pack in the foyer and continued to the council chambers.
The chamber room and large oval table were empty. The guard let him in and promised to recall the councilmen. They entered one at a time, all noting his presence, including Xeku. He glanced at Jak before joining the rest of the council around the table.
Surprisingly, the Karmirian, Gungbe lifted his staff to begin the meeting. Jak didn’t understand why they’d be starting without Rasha.
“Thank you all for joining me in the council chambers today. I’m here to give you my answer. Is the princess not here?”
“No, she is away on urgent busines
