Vincent's heart pounded in his chest as the roar echoed through the halls. For a moment, everything stood still, the sound reverberating off the stone walls of the council chamber. His soldiers tensed, hands instinctively moving toward their weapons. But before anyone could react further, Dargun raised a hand, signaling them to hold.
"We'll deal with whatever's out there later," Dargun said, his voice gruff but calm. "First, you'll speak with the council."
Vincent exchanged a quick glance with Marcus, then gave a short nod, trusting his men to stay alert. Together, they followed Dargun deeper into the chamber. As they moved forward, the council chamber came fully into view, a large circular room dominated by a stone dais. On that dais, seated at the center, was the last person Vincent had expected to see.
A woman.