Meret and the beta sat alongside some other councilmen, waiting for the king’s arrival. The air in the council room was heavy, filled with unspoken questions and tension.

Just then, the door opened, and they all rose to their feet in respect as the king entered, with Bruce walking a few steps behind him.

Meret’s eyes flickered briefly to Bruce. Her second-in-command stood behind her, silent but observant, hands clasped neatly at his back.

She wondered if Bruce had been briefed about the ...