The Cruelest Act (7)

The candlelight flickered against the dimly lit walls of the Summanus estate, casting elongated shadows across the tense gathering.

Heavy breaths filled the chamber as the family sat in uneasy silence, their minds weighed down by the words that had reached them just hours prior.

Nathan stood at the head of the table, his sharp eyes scanning the faces of his family members.

"Nathan, have you heard about it?"

A voice broke the silence, trembling with unease.

"That Wretched Woman has spoken a prophecy...! She claims Reves will bring about the downfall of the Ten Throne Holders!"

A collective shudder passed through the room.

"W-what do we do?"

A distant cousin spoke, voice unsteady.

"Although the Eighth Throne Holder is protecting us, the others will not sit idly by! They will find a way to destroy us, no matter what!"

Murmurs of agreement spread through the room, anxiety rising like a tide.