"They're the elders," Troy said in a hushed, panicked voice, leaning in closer to Ronan, as though that might soften the blow. "They said they want to meet Riven."
Ronan, who had just stepped out of his chambers, froze for a second.
"I—I didn't know what to do!" Troy stammered. "They caught me on the way here. Said they knew Riven was with you and demanded an audience. I tried to say he wasn't available, but they looked like they were already angry, really angry. And—and I kind of… Might've implied that I'd go talk to you and get back to them."
Ronan exhaled, jaw clenched.
"Troy," he said slowly, pinching the bridge of his nose, "go back and tell them to leave. Right now."
Troy blinked. "Wait—just like that?"
"Yes," Ronan said, unwavering. "Tell them I refused. He's not meeting anyone."
