KAELITH
The council chamber was quiet after the flames died down. But I knew better than to mistake silence for peace. These elders were bred on power and politics and now that the prophecy had been stirred from its grave, they wouldn't let it go so easily.
Cassien was the first to speak again, his tone more careful this time. "You're not denying the girl means something to you. That much is clear."
"She doesn't concern the council," I said flatly.
Lyra tapped her fingers on the stone armrest. "She may not, but the people do. Rumors are spreading. Some think she is the one from the prophecy. Others… they're frightened. Your father would've never—"
"Don't," I warned. "Don't bring him into this."
Moren leaned forward. "If you continue down this path, we will have to consider measures to protect the realm's stability. Including finding you a suitable queen."
I barked a laugh. "You'd pick a bride for me now? Send her into my bedchamber too?"
"You misunderstand," Cassien said, his eyes steel. "If the girl becomes a threat to balance, we will remove her."
The temperature in the room dropped.
"I suggest," I said slowly, "you never finish that sentence again."
Lyra met my gaze without flinching. "This is bigger than your desires. If the prophecy is real and she's part of it, then she's already bigger than all of us."
"I've heard enough," I growled, standing. "I will not be questioned again. And if any of you raise a hand against her—against mine—then you will face me, not the law."
"You are not king yet, Kaelith," Cassien reminded.
"No," I said, turning away. "But I already rule the dark."