CHAPTER 155
The council chamber was filled again by morning light, though none of the members looked rested. Grace sat at the head of the long table, a pale silence between her and the councillors. The words of Joren Talls from the night before still clung to the air…"They always come."
Vera stood closest to her, parchment in hand. "Majesty, we've sent orders to cross-check every officer who once served under Robert. Records from the northern post are being transported here under guard."
Grace nodded but said nothing. Her hand rested against the table, fingers tapping once against the carved edge. "Did he speak again?"
"No, Majesty. He refused food. The wardens say he prays all night."
"Prays to what?"
Vera hesitated. "He doesn't say. But the words match the same vow Robert made when he took command years ago."
Grace's eyes narrowed. "And the others?"
