Kermit's POV
The tension in the room was suffocating when I stepped back inside without Tonia at my side. Every Executioner's face was carved from stone, their expressions as rigid as mine appeared to be.
Zack's sharp gaze immediately swept behind me, searching for someone who wasn't there. His eyes hardened when they found nothing.
"Your Majesty, if I may ask, where is Tonia?"
My voice remained steady, betraying nothing. "She will not be attending this meeting."
The shock rippled through the room like a physical force. Zack wasn't alone in his disbelief, and the discomfort was tangible among the other Executioners.
"I fail to comprehend this decision. This matter demands her presence, Your Highness. We cannot simply ignore such a serious accusation as if it holds no weight."
Another Executioner stepped forward, his desperation barely contained behind a thin veneer of respect. "Your Majesty, she must be questioned. This situation requires immediate attention."
