'Are we certain this is all an act?' Kaelen wondered.
The elders sensed the shift and exchanged quick glances with the High Priests and followers—a silent agreement passed between them, a temporary alliance forged in necessity.
A temporary truce!
To bring Aether here, they would have to stand together.
One elder leaned toward Kaelen and whispered urgently. Kaelen nodded, then raised his voice, "If you truly speak the truth, then bring forth Aether. Let us see him with our own eyes."
Sandra's gaze snapped to Kaelen. He flinched involuntarily, but the elders' hands were firm on his shoulders, steadying him.
They too felt the weight of her presence, but none could afford to retreat now. This, they realised, was exactly the kind of ordeal an emperor must endure—confrontation, pressure, and the will to stand unbroken.
