章 592: In the Shadow of Fear - Part 3

RETH

As soon as Reth stepped into the Security Council building he could feel it. He pulled up short as Aymora caught his eye, while the elders continued to mill around her. Behryn sat alone, off to the side, frowning at the floor.

His stomach twisted into a knot, but he made himself walk forward and take his seat. As the elders and councilors became aware of him, they all quieted and returned to their seats as well.

He waited a moment, but they all stared at him expectantly.

"You've made a decision?" he asked gruffly.

They nodded. Brant shifted in his seat and Reth stared at him.

"We believe the need for the people to see their Queen shift, to know she has become truly one of them, and the unity this will foster, is of greater need than to protect the Queen from this process which is, as we all know, entirely natural. Even for those carrying young."