Garcia' POV
I steal one final glance at Elder Dawn before settling into my chair at the breakfast table, launching into animated conversation with Grandpa about our weekend adventures.
Her gaze burns against my back like a brand, but I deliberately ignore the sensation. Right now, I crave nothing more than to savor my meal and steal a few precious moments of peace before we face the Elders' tribunal.
Through our mind-link, Collin and Atticus will feed me whatever intelligence I need during the upcoming confrontation. Even Uncle Patton stands ready to guide me if the situation demands action.
When Elder Dwayne leads our procession toward the Throne room instead of the King's Chamber, surprise flickers through me. The moment we cross the threshold, the reason becomes crystal clear.
