I continue my line of reasoning. “While it’s strange that the manor was abandoned, it could also be a coincidence that the rebels moved their stronghold before we attacked. It may also have been strategic on their part. They had a very clear escape plan today. I would not be surprised if they decided disappearing was in their best interest prior to launching an attack on me.” What I don’t say is that the rebels could also have been tipped off that we were coming by someone in this very room, or at least another councilor. Nemesia may not be working alone after all. Carex looks like he wants to protest, but Admon jumps in instead, ever the diligent supporter.

“What happened during the attack, Your Majesty?” His voice is soft, kind, and curious, and it makes the tension in the room dissipate slightly.

“It went as expected,” I explain. “They were very prepared. I killed about two-thirds of them, but the rest escaped by aerstepping away the instant it became clear they lost. I also revealed to them that Prince Hawthorne lied about concealing them from me during the heist on the thayar tower. We’ve likely spoiled the ruse with the Velmarans.”

“If I may, Your Majesty,” Silene says, her use of my title startling me. But she’s right to use it here, when tensions are so high. I nod. “They may have also discovered the letter we stole and made assumptions about what that meant about our intentions. I think they may have left the manor weeks ago, as soon as they suspected us, and used Fionn and me one more time to find a way in before revealing that they knew we weren’t on their side. Their preparation today also tells me this is a possibility. They probably knew they were walking into a trap but were willing to risk it for the opportunity.” I study Silene closely. Surely, she’s also put together the connection about the rebels being tipped off. She must have a reason for trying to make it appear like their disappearance from the manor was the result of the missing letter.

“Sound reasoning,” Admon praises. I sigh.

“For now, this is enough,” I say, despite my disappointment at letting Krantz get away a third time. “I’ll consider the situation carefully. We’ll meet again in a few days to plan our next move, if we have one.” Carex again tries to protest, but I shoot him a look that says I’m not in the mood, and he finally relents.

The group disperses, but Thorne stays at my side. Fionn places his massive body directly in the path Carex would need to take to reach me, arms crossed and staring daggers into Carex’s back as he leaves. Silene quickly steps to my side, concern in her eyes.