Javier exhaled slowly, his cheek pressed against his knuckles.
Ugh… why does Father even bother? He knew this would happen. He always knows. And yet, here we are, dancing in a play where the ending's already written.
Hmm?
No.
If it's Father, then there's something else. He wouldn't waste his breath unless there was another plan.
The Keeper of Royal Law rose, his tone solemn, each word heavy with ritual dignity.
"By the binding decree of this council, the votes are cast and sealed. Of thirty-eight voices present, the tally stands as follows: one vote in favor of Princess Kliatana, one abstained, and thirty-six in favor of His Grace, Duke Kimar."
The chamber stirred, whispers rippling like wind through tall grass. All eyes turned toward Kimar.
The duke pressed a hand to his chest, lowering his head in practiced humility, though the smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth betrayed him.
