Chapter 379 Letters. Accounts. Coin trails.

The next morning’s gathering with the nobles should’ve been routine, it certainly started that way at least.

The same old reports, recaps of supply lists, and one tiresome dispute about grazing rights that had carried on longer than some bloodlines and really was completely irrelevant under the threat of Ely and the Lycan King.

Ann dismissed the last envoy with a clipped nod and sat back in her chair, already thinking ahead to the files waiting in the archives that she wanted to go over.

Then Bartholomew cleared his throat. It wasn’t loud or sharp, but it was enough to pull her attention. He was leaning on his cane near the wall, stood half in the shadows. He rarely addressed her during open court now, and if he did, it was never without reason.

Ann’s shoulders stiffened.

“Did you want something?”

The elder inclined his head.

“Ah, yes, a word. Privately, if you don’t mind.”

Adam’s eyes narrowed, but Ann gestured for Coral to clear the