A collective shudder ran through the hall. But she wasn't finished.
"And while I am on the front lines," Heena continued, a sharp, predatory smile playing on her lips, "I will leave the absolute power of the regency to my Aunt. So, by all means, keep shouting. I'll sign the transfer of power right now. You all remember what she's like, don't you?"
The silence that followed was absolute. It was as if every noble in the room had suddenly been struck by a collective case of deafness. Their protests died in their throats, replaced by a deep, primal chill.
