As Aiden and neared the estate's grand hall, the murmur of voices and footsteps from the Loain guards echoed around them. The tension between Moon City's noble families had been building for months, but now, with Aiden's carefully orchestrated strikes, it was coming to a head.
Lady Lana paused before the hall doors, her voice low. "Remember, the Edrans are shrewd and perceptive. We need to tread carefully. Any sign of weakness, and they'll sense it."
Aiden nodded, his eyes steely. "Don't worry. By the end of this, they'll see nothing but strength."
The doors swung open, and they entered the council chamber, where the Edran emissary waited, flanked by two Edran guards. The emissary, a wiry man with sharp features and a calculating gaze, rose as Aiden and Lana approached. He bowed respectfully to Lana but cast a curious glance at Aiden.
