Sent as the Alliance Leader's Hostage Husband novel · Chapter 17 of 24

Chapter 17: The Vote

The Hall of Elders at dawn smelled of cold incense and old money.

All twelve elders sat in their half circle on the raised cushions.

Behind them, on the benches, four hundred sect masters sat shoulder to shoulder.

In the guest seat at the right of the dais sat Elder Ma, with a cup of tea steaming in his lap.

He nodded to Ye-han when he came in, as a kind uncle nods.

Ye-han did not nod back.

Gyeong-wook walked down the middle of the hall in his plain grey robe.

He stopped on the stone in front of the dais, and stood.

He did not bring his sword.

Ye-han stood a pace behind him, with his fan in his sleeve and his hands folded.

"Let it be recorded," said the Sealing Elder, in his voice like wet paper.

"The elders gather under the Law of the Seat to ask whether Do Gyeong-wook remains fit to lead.

"The charge is brought by the Hall Elder.

"Speak."

The Hall Elder rose.

He had a scroll in one hand, and he looked as pleased as Ye-han had ever seen him.

"Friends," he said.

"Ten years ago we gave this man the seat, because we believed him sound.

"He was dutiful, and modest, and he signed what he was given.

"Since the day the Cult's heir entered our walls, he has been none of those things."

A low sound moved through the benches.

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