Faelyn hesitated.
Couldn't explain here, not with everyone watching.
"Later. Please."
Mira studied her for a long moment, then nodded slowly.
But her expression said clearly that she KNEW something was wrong.
Roshan stepped forward, voice carrying over the growing crowd.
"The blessed one has returned for the council meeting."
"She came willingly."
"She will present herself to answer questions."
"Until then, she is under MY protection."
He looked at Nyx.
"And his."
Murmurs rippled through the crowd.
Angry murmurs that grew louder:
"She shouldn't be here!"
"Bonded to TWO chiefs!"
"It's an abomination!"
"She's corrupting our chief!"
"The panther has no right—"
"GET OUT!"
Tension rose sharply, warriors on both sides tensing with hands moving toward claws.
The crowd parted suddenly.
Like someone had physically pushed them aside.
Korin walked forward with several elders behind him, all looking grim and cold.
He stopped ten feet away.
