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Chapter 71 : Shadows at the Council Table

Author: Pixie Snow
last update Last Updated: 2025-03-09 22:05:20

Lyra's POV

The war room buzzed with quiet murmurs and cautious glances. The circular table at the heart of the chamber, carved from obsidian and etched with the runes of past rulers, hadn’t seen this level of tension in weeks. The High Council was assembling - lords, advisors, and surviving generals of the fractured realm. Every seat was filled.

Kane stood at the head of the table, his posture straight, his golden eyes sharp. Beside him, Lyra exuded icy composure, though a low flicker of energy coiled beneath her skin - Thalia was restless, watching.

Only one seat remained empty, deliberately left open.

The one meant for a god… or a monster.

"Where is he?" Lord Rhogan asked, one brow arched in suspicion. "This entity you brought into our castle. The being who answered your summons..."

"He will be here," Lyra interrupted coolly, her voice slicing through the chatter. "And he’s not just our concern anymore. He heard the Harbinger’s call. That makes him everyone’s problem."

A wave of di
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