CHAPTER NINETY-THREE
The musty scent of ancient wood and the soft murmur of voices welcome me as I push open the heavy door to the council chamber. Warm, golden light spills from the hanging iron chandeliers, casting long shadows over the room's stone walls. My gaze sweeps across the assembly of elders seated around a large, oval table, their faces etched with lines of worry and determination. At the head of the table sits Silas, his posture commanding yet accessible, his brown eyes focused on a map stretched out before him.
"Ah, Aria," Silas's voice rumbles like distant thunder, acknowledging my entrance without looking up. "Join us."
I nod and stride toward the empty chair beside him, the soles of my boots whispering against the flagstone floor. My fingers brush against the back of th
