When the next morning came, Elias informed Adeline there would be a council. She looked at him with surprise. Why didn't he warn her in advance? He had ample time to tell her. Was this another one of his tests to prove her worth as Queen?
Elias was dressing himself, buttoning his clothes with ease. She stared at his large silhouette that always towered over her. His shoulders were broad and comfortable, his presence lethal and cruel. It was strange that he had so many contradictions.
He seemed to treat everyone ruthlessly, everyone but her.
"Do you plan to sit there all morning?" Elias mused, turning around.
Adeline's shoulders subconsciously dropped in disappointment. He was fully clothed now. But then she blinked, wondering what was she expecting?
"You could've told me yesterday," Adeline said. "I would've prepared myself."
"Hm, but where's the fun in that? I'd like to see how you react under stressful and unexpected circumstances."
