The elders of the Evolari stared at Zenon with intense gazes. Their queen had just placed the fate of their race into his hands, and though none among them doubted Zenon's wisdom or insight, this was no small matter.
This was everything.
His decision would shape the future of the Evolari.
Zenon exhaled deeply, and his eyes turned steady as he looked at Jenera.
"My queen…" he began, "with respect, it would only make sense for the final decision to come from you. You've led us for decades without fault, not once. Your judgment has preserved our race through drought, betrayal, and war. But…" he paused, sending a glance to the elders, "I will still speak my mind."
The wind stirred gently around the platform as he continued.
"When I first arrived at the military camp… Atticus Ravenstein was already the most powerful person there. Most didn't realize it, but I did. And so did he."
The brows of a few elders furrowed.
