The council hall was already tense when Liora stepped inside with Silver in her arms. The nobles, warriors, and attendants stood in tight groups, whispering about the chaos Draven left behind. The Blood Moon still cast its red glow outside, staining the sky and reminding everyone of the danger they now faced.

Selene stood at the center of the hall with two senior nobles beside her. Her posture was rigid, her expression sharp with anger. The moment she saw Liora, her eyes narrowed.

“There ...