"Say something," Juniper whispered desperately to Dominick. But he didn't even glance at her. His silence spoke louder than any words could.
Raiden's voice broke the silence. "From here on, this becomes a family matter. We'll discuss it privately," he declared. "The council session is concluded for today."
He stood and exited the hall, his robes trailing behind him, followed in silence by the remaining council members.
As the great doors closed, Idris rushed forward and threw his arms around his sister. Zilia knelt slightly, wrapping him in a tight embrace and gently patting his head.
"Take Idris and go," Casaio said. Zilia nodded in understanding and led her brother out of the hall.
Once they were gone, Juniper turned to Gabriel, her composure quivering. "Gabriel, you're making a mistake," she said, her voice trembling with anger.
