Chapter 184 The Calm Before

• The wagon stopped a hundred yards from our gates. Close enough to be threatening. Far enough to make approach difficult.
• For a moment, nothing happened. Just silence and the oppressive weight of midday sun beating down on the courtyard.
• Then a figure stepped from the wagon's escort. I recognized him immediately. Council Member Aldric. One of the oldest members. One who'd voted in favor of our bond during the trial.