The air in the throne hall was heavier than usual that morning. Guards stood at full attention along the marble walls, spears gleaming beneath the faint light filtering through tall windows. The previous day's chaos had left the entire castle uneasy. Rumors spread despite the king's warning and whispers about the rogues, the Heiress, and the bride.
Now, another summons had gone out, this time not from the king, but from the High Priestess of the Moon herself.
Aveloria entered the hall quietly beside her father. The low a sound of her boots echoed in the silence. The elders were already seated, their expressions ranging from anxious to defensive. Elder Eldric was the only one who looked outright impatient, his arms folded across his chest as if he had better things to do.
Then the doors opened again.
