The grand hall buzzed with an uneasy energy. Council members filtered in, their robes rustling as they took their seats. Mathias entered last, his confident stride and faint smirk drawing Juliana's attention like a beacon of suspicion.
From her throne at the head of the chamber, Juliana watched every move, her gaze sharp as a blade. Hak stood to her right, his imposing presence radiating a warning: no one would harm her under his watch.
The room quieted as Juliana rose, the Tear of Eternity gleaming at her waist. Its faint hum resonated in the silence, a reminder of her authority and power.
"Thank you for gathering on such short notice," she began, her voice steady but commanding. "I have called this session to address a grave matter that threatens the foundation of our kingdom."
A Cal
