Elara's POV
I turned to Corvus. "Lord Corvus, you will meet with me to discuss your new role and immediate priorities. The royal study."
Corvus nodded. Swallowed. "Yes, Your Majesty."
I was about to tell them all they could leave. The words were forming in my mouth. But before I could speak, Malakor finally found his voice.
"You... you cannot do this."
The words came out rough. Strained. Everyone in the room turned to look at him.
"You cannot just... send me away." His voice was getting louder, more desperate. "Thirty years. Thirty years I have served this family. I was here when your father took the throne. I was here when your mother died. I was here when your father breathed his last breath. When both their death were announced. I held this kingdom together while you were nothing but a child playing in the gardens, chasing butterflies and crying over skinned knees."
I said nothing. Just watched him.
