Elara's POV
The words hung in the air like thunder after lightning.
I watched them land. Watched the color drain from Malakor's face. Watched Lord Petrov look like someone had struck him. Even Lord Corvus, who was usually so careful to show nothing, looked shocked. Even Kaelen stared at me like he had seen a ghost.
Thorin's face went through several changes in rapid succession. First pale. Then flushed with anger. His jaw tightened until I could see the muscle jumping in his cheek.
"You cannot be serious," he said finally. His voice was low, dangerous. "Because of a misunderstanding–"
"This is not a misunderstanding," I interrupted. My voice carried clearly across the courtyard. I made sure of it. Made sure every person gathered there could hear me. "This is a demonstration. Of what my life would be under your 'partnership.'"
I took a step toward him. Not aggressive. Just... present. Visible. Refusing to be ignored or dismissed.
