Liora's eyes burned with authority. "Gonzalo and the others will be restored to their positions without delay. Any whisper of doubt toward them will be treated as disobedience to the throne."
This time the crackle of energy through the room was palpable.
Some council members sagged with relief.
Some nearly collapsed with shock.
Some looked ready to burst into tears.
Vanya, standing toward the back with Kael and Dante, let out a shaking breath. Nyssa clutched her chest, blinking back something dangerously close to emotion.
Elira covered her mouth as tears slipped down her cheeks.
And just like that the hall erupted into celebration.
A roar of triumph.
A wave of cheers.
A blast of laughter, shouts, and relieved cries.
Warriors stomped their spears against the marble. Advisors congratulated one another. Council members exchanged embraces. The tension that had been choking the palace since dawn shattered like glass. People almost rushed the throne before catching themselves.
