"Has she not responded to any of the calls?" asked one of the elves, his gaze sweeping across the others seated around the long table.
The council was gathered in the meeting hall of the ruler's main estate—a place rarely used except during times of crisis or the annual assembly.
Today was neither a sudden emergency nor a routine meeting. They had seen this problem approaching for weeks, yet it had now grown urgent enough to demand immediate action. The livelihood of their people was at stake, and a decision had to be made.
"Her Majesty is being childish," an elderly elf said gruffly, his fingers tightening around the cup in his hand. Frustration darkened his features. "She isn't acting like a ruler at all!" His voice rose, echoing in the chamber. "A ruler must put the safety and prosperity of her people above all else. And she… she has locked herself away, turning her back on those who need her most."
