Chapter 12, Louie Hicks:
The council chambers were full of those who backed Louie. The men sat in silence, some fidgeted, most sat like a stone. Louie could spot the gravity of the impending confrontation in the faces of each man in the room. Everyone knew what was about to happen and the danger they all placed themselves in if they failed.
Those present had been picked by their loyalty to the throne and the men the king had allied himself with. It was time for Asher Black to step down as general and protector of the realm. None assumed this to be a peaceful settlement.
No one expected him to leave the position quietly, all were ready for a physical fight. The stress of the situation was unbearable. Louie flexed his toes in the slippers he wore. His ornate wig and fake beard itched, but
