Whisker's words caused a subtle but unmistakable shift through the hall, many of the Eldorians who had been seated with confidence only moments ago now adjusting uncomfortably in their seats.
Atticus didn't need to think long to understand what was happening. He had seen through their ploy the moment the meeting began.
Forming a council centered around him, around his authority, would keep all of them firmly involved in every major decision moving forward, and this gathering had been their desperate attempt to lay the foundation for it.
Though it wasn't treason, nor was there any malice behind it, the mere thought of schemes forming within his own house left a bitter taste in his mouth.
Such things never stayed harmless for long.
The air thickened as the temperature began to rise, and the hall fell into an uneasy stillness.
One by one, the Eldorians lowered their gazes, avoiding his eyes as though instinct alone warned them against meeting his stare.
