The Goldcrests still maintained enough power in Yano to be above accusations without substantial proof. The director couldn't act openly against them; it would just hasten Yino's invasion and unleash a conflict for which Yano wasn't prepared.
The city's best hope remained waiting for the King's return, while noble families continued their secret conversations, seeking a solution that wouldn't trigger open warfare.
But from Kassian's doubts, Yino would also think they weren't prepared...
♢♢♢♢
Yino's dark council had always been a place where shadows seemed to have a life of their own. The purplish light from abyssal crystals barely illuminated the faces of those present, creating an unsettling chiaroscuro effect that blurred expressions and concealed reactions.
