Just as Elaria and the others heard Alex's question, the room went dead quiet.
Then killing intent burst from two directions at once.
First, from the Elven King himself. Thalion's gaze sharpened into a glare so intense it felt like it could cut stone. His aura stirred as if he might jump across the table at Alex.
"And why," he said in a low, menacing voice, "is that information relevant… kid?"
A bead of sweat rolled down Alex's face.
Before he could answer, an arm hooked around his neck from behind. Alicia squeezed just enough to cut off his air, dragging him back a little as he started choking.
He tapped her forearm weakly. "N-Not… important… not important… I was… was… huh… just asking for… investig…ation… that's all…"
The pressure around his throat suddenly vanished.
Alex bent forward, gasping for breath.
Then the culprit's sweet, innocent voice rang out. "Your Majesty, are you alright? What happened? Are you having trouble breathing?"
