In an instant, the faces around me transformed from simmering scorn to pure fear. Their once-piercing glares were now averted as they refused to look me in the eyes. The idea that they would ever regard Eleonora with anything even remotely resembling respect was almost comical.
I spoke carefully, lacing my words with a clear threat. “I told the Chief that I would fully cooperate. If I continue to be treated this way, however, I can’t make any promises about what will happen next. Sir Kyle himself has recently come to realize that I shouldn’t be challenged—would anyone here like a demonstration of why?”
At my words, every eye in the room shifted to stare at Kyle. The picture he painted—weary-eyed and tenderly comforting Miu—struck pity in the hearts of the onlookers. A heavy silence fell upon the room, broken only when the Emperor cleared his throat.
