Chapter 27

The song ended.

Applause scattered thinly through the room, carrying obvious perfunctoriness and unease.

Kaelen helped Elara up. A sheen of sweat coated his forehead, but the excitement in his eyes hadn't dimmed in the slightest. He reveled in being the center of attention, especially with his regained treasure in his arms.

"Now, can you tell me what the gift is?" Kaelen looked down at