The man looked up at the king with tears streaking his face. "They said Lady Cynthia would be queen. That everything would be set right again."
The hall erupted.
Several ministers shot to their feet.
Daeron laughed softly under his breath. "Well. That answers that."
Cornelius went pale with fright.
Valerian stepped closer until only a pace separated them. "You gambled with fire," he said quietly. "And you forgot who commands the storm."
He lifted his hand.
Kaelen moved instantly.
Two guards seized Cornelius by the arms.
The hall erupted.
"You cannot—!" Cornelius shouted, struggling. "This is a power play! You fear the Raventhorns because we do not bend!"
Valerian's voice cut through the chaos like steel. "I fear no one who hides behind fear."
The guards forced Cornelius to his knees.
Gasps rippled through the ministers. A few looked away. Others leaned forward, unable to tear their eyes from the sight of one of the realm's most powerful men brought low.
