The grand hall was silent save for the faint crackle of torches lining its stone walls. Juliana stood in the center, her chin held high despite the weight of the council's stares. Each elder seemed to scrutinize her with eyes that betrayed mistrust, a lingering reminder that not all had accepted her ascension as Queen. Hak stood beside her, his unwavering presence a source of quiet strength.
"Queen Juliana," Elder Mathias began, his voice steeped in condescension. "The council has deliberated on the matter of your upcoming coronation, and while some of us recognize your... potential, there remains the matter of your allegiance."
Juliana's hands clenched at her sides, but her face betrayed no emotion. "My allegiance is to the kingdom and its people," she replied firmly, her voice echoing
