A frown creased Rebecca's flawless forehead as she retorted, "I didn't come all the way here to endure this inanity," Determination set in her ruby lips, she pivoted on her heel, ready to storm out of the insufferable place.
But her motion was thwarted as Esther's hand shot out, her grip firm on Rebecca's wrist, yanking her back, "You do not walk away when I'm speaking," she commanded, her voice echoing in the vast chamber, the stern tone brooking no argument.
Rebecca scoffed, her gaze defiant, "Just because you're my elder sister, doesn't mean you can dictate what I can or cannot do. Not anymore. I am stronger and not answerable to you," she bit back, her chin tilted in a display of audacious pride.
Esther's face remained a mask of icy composure, "Strength matters not when it comes to the affairs of our House," she countered, then dropped a name that made Rebecca stiffen, "Do you really want Thorin to get involved?"