The council gathered before dawn.
No one had slept. Fear moved through the hall louder than any voice.
Mae stood first.
"This has gone far enough. Blackmoon is being attacked because of her."
Kael's growl silenced several whispers.
Lyra rose before he could speak.
"Let her finish."
Mae's eyes widened. "You want me to continue?"
"I want everyone to say what they are whispering."
The council members looked away.
One elder cleared his throat. "The rogues came for you. Laura betrayed us because of you. Now Albert's mother has been taken."
"No," Lyra said. "Laura chose betrayal. Whoever took Albert's mother chose to do it. Blaming me is easier because it means none of you must look at the traitor sitting beside you."
Outrage erupted.
"What are you accusing us of?" Mae demanded.
"I am saying Laura did not create that tunnel alone. Someone weakened the wards. Someone gave her council schedules. Someone knew when our patrols changed."
Kael watched Lyra with quiet pride.
