Chapter 21 The King's Choice

• The Council Hall was filled with murmurs and the palpable scent of tension. Every seat was occupied, and all eyes were fixed on the grand double doors. The anticipation in the air was thick, almost suffocating. The moment the doors swung open, a hush fell upon the room.
• King Damien stepped inside with a calm yet commanding presence. Behind him walked Amelia—poised, composed, dressed in a dark navy gown that shimmered under the flickering torchlight. Her chin was raised, her eyes reflecting the moonlight pouring through the high windows. For a moment, time itself seemed to freeze.
• “Before we begin,” Damien's voice rang out, calm and resolute, “I have an announcement to make.”