Sigora blinked, her breath hitching at the unexpected warmth.
"But listen carefully," Jorghan added, stepping past her, his aura flickering like heat from a flame.
"I won't bow.
I won't thank them.
And I won't pretend to respect them. They can recognize the Sol'vur name if they want—but it won't change how I see them."
He paused.
"If they fear me…"
A small, dangerous smile curved his lips.
"…that's good. Fear keeps people honest."
Sigora exhaled, torn between relief and concern.
"I will come with you and stay with you at the meeting."
"What about the rest of us?" Sarhita asked.
"Can we come?"
"The ceremony is for clan heads and their direct representatives," Sigora explained.
"But there will be a gathering afterward, open to all. You can attend that portion."
Sigora's eyes moved to Swana. "You will stay here and take care of the clan; I'm sure your father would want you here too. Take care of Scarlett and that woman Grace; don't let her out of your sight."
