CHAPTER 150
The council chamber was already filled when Grace entered. The air was heavier than usual, the low murmurs fading as her steps echoed across the stone floor. Councillors straightened in their seats. None dared meet her eyes for long, but their silence spoke of unease.
She took her place at the head of the long table, her expression steady, though her thoughts churned beneath the surface. She let her gaze move from one face to the next, Parkston standing at her right, Mathew Sterrn slightly behind, Councillor Vera at her left, and the rest aligned in rows, waiting for her signal.
"You have all received your instructions," Grace began. Her tone was measured, formal. "You were to gather all reports concerning Commander Robert. Today, I expect your findings."
Her words struck the room like the sound of iron against stone. No one spoke at first. The only sound was the faint creak of chairs and the rustle of parchment as some councillors shifted uncomfortably.
