The Council Chamber emptied swiftly following Torian’s decisive close and Kaelen’s final, challenging decree. The Lords and Ladies retreated, leaving behind the powerful sense of a political battle won. However, a war was still looming.
“A presentation of the future Queen,” Torian mused, running a hand through his hair. “Kaelen is not being generous. He is forcing us into a vulnerable public spotlight to see if you crack under pressure.”
“It’s a donor gala,” I said, a faint smile touching my lips. Torian looked confused. “In the mortal world, when my museum wanted to unveil a major piece or secure big funding, they hosted a gala. The Council meeting is like a board meeting. The presentation is the gala designed to win over the donors. Or in our case, the people in the realm.
Torian st
