Mira’s POV

We reached the neutral territory by dawn. Kael said, “They summoned you. Not invited, summoned.” Lyra replied, “The Council wants to assess whether you’re a threat.” Cyrus added, “They’re afraid of what you survived.”

“They should be,” I said. Elen stood behind me. Quiet. Watching. Listening. Kael warned, “Council gatherings aren’t trials, but this one will feel like it.”

“I’m not here to prove anything,” I said. “I’m here to make them choose.” ...