Every whisper died instantly as pin drop silence enveloped the entire hall. Even the elders who had been murmuring moments ago straightened in their seats.
A man stepped into view.
Tall and imposing. His mere presence seemed to press down on the room. His sharp eyes swept across the hall, missing nothing, judging everything.
"Papa," Diana's voice chimed, a bright smile plastered across her face, which only brightened right afterward.
Behind him, another figure followed, younger and dangerous in a way that didn't need to be announced.
Ace's gaze hardened the moment he saw him.
Damian.
Then, as if they were one, everyone rose to their feet and greeted,
"We welcome the patriarch."
The old master Frost didn't stop or reply until he reached his seat. Then he nodded and waved his hand. "Seat."
Behind, Damian walked, his steps measured and unhurried. He didn't spare anyone a glance until he reached where his seat was beside the patriarch.
