The silence of the Quiet Woods was now broken, replaced by a different silence within the throne hall of Silverwood Spire. A silence thick with tension, pregnant with unspoken questions. Nihil stood in the center of the polished marble floor, flanked by Lyraelle on one side and Elara on the other. Across from them, Lord Elarion stood with his supporters, his face a mask of cold hatred. Above them all, seated upon her Living Wood Throne, Queen Aerwyna watched, her ancient eyes weighing the burden of a decision that would shape her people's future.
