Whispers of the Aether Realm

Chapter 2: The Silent Council

The news of Lord Thallan's death had to be handled carefully. Arabelle couldn't risk it becoming public knowledge before she and Raiden knew the full truth behind the murder. It was still early morning, the first light creeping into the sky, when she and Raiden slipped through the palace corridors toward the council chambers. They needed answers, and the council—composed of Valoria's most trusted advisors—might know more than they let on.

Raiden walked beside her, his usual calm demeanor in place, though Arabelle could sense the tension beneath his composed exterior. They hadn't spoken much since leaving Thallan's chambers the night before. There was too much to process, too many questions left unanswered.

"Do you think anyone in the council is involved?" Arabelle asked quietly as they approached the chamber's massive oak doors.

Raiden hesitated before answering. "I wouldn't rule it out. Someone had to know about Thallan's research into the Aether. He wouldn't have kept that from the council, not with how deep he was getting."

Arabelle nodded. That was what worried her most. Thallan had always been meticulous, careful about what information he shared and with whom. If he had been investigating the Aether Realm, he must have uncovered something significant, something dangerous enough to get him killed. And whoever was behind it was likely still within the palace walls.

The doors to the council chamber loomed before them, carved with intricate designs depicting Valoria's ancient history. Arabelle took a deep breath and pushed them open.

Inside, the members of the royal council were already seated. King Aeron sat at the head of the long table, his expression as stern and unreadable as ever. Beside him was Queen Selene, her icy gaze sweeping over the room. The other council members—Lord Malric, Lady Elyse, and a few others—looked up as Arabelle and Raiden entered.

"Ah, Arabelle," King Aeron said, his voice calm but carrying an undercurrent of tension. "I wasn't expecting you this morning."

Arabelle inclined her head, her heart pounding in her chest. She had to be careful with her words. One misstep, and the entire court could be thrown into chaos. "Father, I needed to speak with the council. There's been... an incident."

King Aeron's brow furrowed. "What sort of incident?"

Arabelle glanced at Raiden, who gave her a slight nod. She chose her next words carefully. "Lord Thallan has been found dead."