Flashback ( PDFDrive )

“Interesting word choice, Norene,” Alina said with a chilly smile.
“Tell me, is it public unease you’re worried about? Or public outcry
against your family?”
Norene raised her chin, her indigo eyes flashing. “I won’t deny that
I’d hoped today’s proceedings would put an end to at least some of the
rumors currently tarnishing our hard-earned reputation. But as an
Emissary—with centuries more experience than you, I might add—my
only concern is ensuring the safety of our world. People are
frightened. They need to see their Council taking action. And this—”
“Is our way of reminding everyone that our job is to ensure justice
—not vengeance,” Bronte finished for her. “We do not act out of fear
or anger, nor do we pursue revenge. And we do not hand out a life
sentence without ensuring that it is absolutely necessary!”
“But if he escapes—” Norene argued.
“We’ll make sure he doesn’t,” Emery jumped in. “Not only will he
have the guards we’ve already mentioned, and additional security at
the property, but we’ve also arranged for a rather unique means of
monitoring his every move.” He craned his neck, focusing on
something toward the back of the hall as he commanded, “Please
come forward!”
A hush fell over the room as another goblin marched toward the
Council—a female warrior who Sophie recognized immediately. And
she knew the strawberry blond boy trailing behind even better.
“Dex?” she asked, watching her best friend step onto another
section of the floor, which then rose and connected to Alvar’s
platform. “What’s going on?”
“Whatever it is, make it quick,” Keefe added. “Some of us are
running out of time.”