The grand council chamber remained a theatre of tension, its soaring arches and marble walls amplifying every sound in the room. Jess stepped into the room with so much poise, the soft rustle of her purple gown the only sound announcing her arrival into the hall. The weight of dozens of eyes hooked onto her, some appraising while others remained sceptical.
She paused near the King’s seat, her palms sweaty as usual against the fabric of her dress. Though Luca’s calm demeanour offered her some reassurance, she knew this was her fight, and she had to do it alone.
Jess cleared her throat. “Thank you all for attending today’s meeting.” She began her voice steady and without tremors. “I have summoned you here to find ways to implement our plans for the stability of the kingdom. From what I hav
