*Part 1: Political Fallout – 9:00 AM, Day Three, High Council Chamber*
The chamber felt different without House Drayce’s empty seat staring back.
Seven of the remaining nine houses had sent representatives. House Thorne sat to Darius’s right, loyal and quiet. House Kael sat to his left, watching everything. The others kept their eyes on the table.
Elara stood at the center with Aria. Elias stood behind them, arms crossed. Darius stood behind Elara. The message was clear: Luna, Moonblood, Alpha. One line.
Lady Veyra struck her staff. “The Council recognizes House Valerius’s handling of the Drayce rebellion. The matter is closed. However, the redistribution of Drayce’s eastern territories requires discussion.”
House Thorne’s lord spoke first. “House Thorne supports the Crown retaini
