When he looked back up, Elder Mairead was no longer staring with sharpness—her eyes had softened, a glint of interest flashing behind them. Then she looked away with a faint smile, turning her gaze forward as if nothing had happened.
Axelius frowned deeply and muttered under his breath, "…What the fuck was that?"
The Grand Duke's hand twitched slightly as he snapped his head toward him. "Language," he said sharply through gritted teeth.
Axelius rolled his eyes but said nothing more, standing straighter as the elders finally stepped forward.
Elder Thayven took a step ahead, raising a hand lightly.
"Children of the Dravenhart, Today marks the beginning of a tradition older than many of the kingdoms we stand beside. A tradition not of blood alone, but of fire, strength, and legacy."
