••{RHIANNON'S POV}••
Even though the council meeting is still days away, as I sit here staring at the markings spread across the map while Seraphine speaks, I'm beginning to feel very anxious.
A little scared too if I'm being honest with myself.
I keep trying to fit it all together in my mind, but the more I learn, the more complicated everything seems to become.
Seraphine's voice pulls me from my thoughts.
"Rhiannon. You've gone quiet."
I lift my gaze and find all three of them looking at me.
"I'm listening," I say. "It's just… all of this is a lot to take in."
For a few heartbeats, Seraphine simply studies me. Then her expression softens just a little.
"I understand how overwhelmed you must feel," she says. "But it is better for you to feel that weight now than when these rulers are standing in front of you."
I lower my eyes for a moment.
"Yes," I say softly. "I suppose you're right. Carry on."
