In the throne room, the silence following Queen Eleysa's proclamation that Nova would stay didn't last long.
Murmurs rippled through the court like a growing wave—indignation, disbelief, protest. Then came the voices—angry and loud.
"He's an outsider! He should not be allowed near our sacred grounds!"
One noblewoman shouted, her face twisted in disbelief.
"Most of us born here have never even touched the outer walls of the temple! How can you ask us to accept someone who bypassed all our traditions?!"
A heavy-set man bellowed.
The court erupted into chaos. Advisors rose from their seats, arguing with one another, while guards shifted anxiously by the walls.
High Priest Riover watched with a neutral expression, as if this outrage were beneath him. But it was Queen Eleysa who remained unshaken. She simply raised one hand.
The hall fell silent again.
With her chin resting lightly on her hand, she tilted her head toward Malrik.