Lyra's POV
The lead elder had to hear what I discovered. Right now.
My legs moved with purpose across the estate grounds. Down familiar hallways I had traveled countless times before. Past tall windows overlooking perfectly trimmed gardens.
Brooks and Orion matched my pace. Their boots struck the marble floors in unison. Each step drummed against my thundering heartbeat.
The elder council chambers loomed ahead. Those imposing oak doors commanded respect. The brass fixtures gleamed from decades of polished use. I didn't bother with courtesy. My palm slammed against the wood and sent the doors flying open.
Silence crashed over the room.
Five council members occupied their curved table. Documents littered the surface before them. The head elder lifted his eyes from whatever paper held his attention. His face transformed from focus to shock to ice cold displeasure.
"Mrs Vance." His tone carried sharp warning. "This area is forbidden to you."
