Then she sent second message to her beast knight commanders in capital:
LOCKDOWN COUNCIL CHAMBER. NO ONE ENTERS OR EXITS UNTIL I ARRIVE. USE FORCE IF NECESSARY.
The beast knight riding beside her looked concerned. "Your Highness, ordering military lockdown of council chamber is... that's extreme measure."
"The council is attempting illegal forced marriage contract. Extreme measures are appropriate response." Elara's voice was ice-cold. "Execute the order."
"Yes, Your Highness."
---
When the council reconvened, they found the chamber surrounded by beast knights in full armor.
The head minister stood angrily. "What is the meaning of this?"
The lead beast knight—Tomas, the fox-eared commander—spoke calmly: "Orders from Fourth Princess Elara. No one enters or exits this chamber until her arrival. Council session is suspended pending her return."
"You can't—this is outrageous! The council has authority to conduct business—"
