The carriage stopped.I didn't want to get out. Didn't want to face those cold eyes watching us like we were prey.
"Stay close to me," Vaelor said quietly. "Don't let them see you're scared."
"I'm terrified."
"I know. I can feel it. But don't let them see it."
He opened the door and stepped out first. The crowd went silent.
I took a breath. Adjusted the twins in my arms. Then followed.
The nobles stared. Some bowed. Others just watched with calculating eyes.
Threx stepped forward. "Your Majesty. What a surprise. We expected you to come... eventually. But so soon?"
"You demanded we come within seven days," Vaelor said. "We're here in three."
"Indeed. How eager." Threx's eyes moved to me. To the babies in my arms. "And you brought them. How trusting."
"You wanted to examine them. Here they are."
A murmur went through the crowd. Nobles whispering to each other.
Threx moved closer. I stepped back instinctively.
"May I see them?" he asked.
"No."
