Elara's POV
I stood at the window and watched Thorin's procession disappear through the palace gates. The last horse, the last guard, the last flag of Valerium fading into the distance.
Gone.
One problem solved.
I turned from the window. The chamber was still full of people.
And my council. Still here. Still watching. Still waiting to see what I would do next.
Lord Malakor stood near the table, speaking in low tones with Lord Petrov. He looked pleased. Satisfied. Like a cat who had caught a mouse and was deciding how to play with it.
He probably thought this was his moment. His opportunity to reassert influence after the Thorin business. L
He was wrong.
My voice carried across the chamber, cutting through the noise like a knife.
"Council members. Remain here. We have matters to discuss."
The room went still.
Malakor looked up, surprise crossing his face. Petrov frowned. Other advisors exchanged glances, trying to read each other's thoughts.
