Her laughter was soft, almost musical, but it carried a weight that froze every creature in the chamber. 'You've grown bold, little brother. Bold enough to bargain with me as if we're equals.'
Zeyn raised his head. "So… what's your answer?"
Before Bella could respond, a voice cut through the silence. 'Your Majesty, may I speak?'
A centaur-like figure—half-human, half-horse, draped in ceremonial armor—stepped forward. His hooves echoed against the marble floor as he bowed.
'Go on,' Bella allowed.
'While I respect the young man's conviction, his proposal feels… unbalanced.' His deep, resonant voice carried across the room, drawing murmurs of agreement from the other dignitaries. 'He opposes us, causes chaos in our domain, and then demands leniency as if his actions were justified. I cannot see how this benefits anyone but himself.'
