Elara's pov
"You have no proof of these claims," he said. "Rumors and merchant gossip are not–"
"I have documentation," I said calmly. "Which I will be happy to share with my council. Trade records showing declining exports from Valerium. Correspondence from our ambassador noting the unusual security presence in your capital, not to protect against external threats, but to manage internal unrest. Financial reports from merchant houses detailing payment difficulties with Valerium's treasury."
I let this settle. Watched it sink in. Then I added:
"But I am not interested in exposing Valerium's difficulties publicly. That serves no one's interests, least of all Dravara's. Despite everything, we share borders, trade routes, mutual security concerns. Making an enemy of you would be foolish."
I saw confusion written across Thorin's face. He had not expected this
