The Imperial Council Chamber smelled faintly of wet wool and cold air. Snow had followed half the Councillors into the palace despite the servants' best efforts.
Boots were drying near braziers while cloaks hung from stands along the walls. The mood inside the chamber was noticeably heavier than usual.
Atheline arrived a few minutes late. Despite his best efforts, walking had started to hurt. The training session with Lilith had left his body in open rebellion.
He managed to hide most of it, but the slight stiffness in his shoulders remained obvious to anyone paying attention. Unfortunately, Lilith always paid attention.
As he took his seat beside her, she spoke quietly enough that only he could hear.
"Is it that bad. We can postpone the meeting."
Atheline kept his expression neutral.
"No, it's just a muscle pull."
"You can barely sit down."
"Let's just finish the meeting first."
"I'll give you a massage after."
He stared straight ahead trying to maintain control.
