Betty's POV. 

The council chamber felt different in the morning light. 

It was less oppressive, though no less weighted with consequence. 

The same faces that had stonewalled me yesterday now sat straighter, more attentive. 

I could see it in their eyes filled with respect, wariness, perhaps even a touch of fear.

Good.

Damien and I took our seats, and I kept my expression carefully neutral, waiting. 

My heart hammered beneath my composed exterior, but I wouldn't let them see ...