Everything snapped back into motion.
"–meant no disrespect, my king."" Vera finished.
Before Zarek could answer, someone screamed.
"How did that happen?" Another yelled. "The table was fine just a second ago!"
Gasps filled the air as the crowd stared at the table near the queen, which was broken and shards of glass cups scattered across the floor.
People started screaming in panic, shoving each other and running towards the doors in a frenzy to escape whatever unseen danger had caused the mess.
"SILENCE!" Zarek commanded.
Every single person running to the doors stoppedvinstantly in their tracks. Even Eliora felt the weight of his command wrap around her body.
The hall went dead silent. Nobody moved a muscle.
Zarek calmly placed his hand around his soulmate's waist and pulled her close to his side.
"Be calm," he ordered, his deep voice echoing across the room. "No harm will come to anyone here."
