The heavy doors of the conference room closed behind Gerald with a deep, final echo.
For a few seconds, the royal elders remained silent.
Then Elder Morven scoffed.
“He walks away as if this council means nothing.”
Lady Seraphine folded her hands on the table.
“No,” she said calmly. “He walks away because he already made his decision.”
Ronan leaned forward, his voice sharp.
“And what decision would that be? He refuses to share information. Refuses to acknowledge the danger. A king who rules alone invites rebellion.”
Elder Varek’s eyes darkened.
“Careful,” he warned. “That same king has protected this realm longer than any of us sitting here.”
Morven laughed dryly.
“For how long?” he challenged. “The attacks are becoming bolder. Whoever is behind this is no longer hiding. Perhaps
