All eyes were on Adam.
His gaze swept across the gathered heirs before settling on the Acolytes. Despite being the most wretched-looking person present, he still commanded the most attention.
Respect followed power.
And Adam had plenty of it.
He let out a slow sigh.
"You're blaming the wrong people."
"Excuse me?"
Adam's eyes shifted to the speaker.
The heir who'd spoken immediately shrank back, slipping behind his followers as if that alone could shield him from Adam's gaze.
It reminded Adam of a child hiding under a blanket at night, terrified of monsters, believing thin fabric could somehow keep them safe.
The thought almost made him laugh.
He shook his head, the absurdity easing his irritation just a little, then spoke again.
"As I was saying, you're blaming the wrong people."
This time, no one interrupted.
Adam explained.
