Nate and Xanden walked into King Elijah's study.
The room smelled faintly of old parchment and cedarwood. Tall windows behind the massive desk allowed pale morning light to spill across the polished floor.
King Elijah sat behind his desk, already waiting for them.
He did not look pleased.
"Take your seats," King Elijah ordered.
Xanden pulled a chair out effortlessly and sat down without hesitation.
Nate frowned slightly before obeying, lowering himself into the chair beside his brother with far less enthusiasm.
"Why isn't Alaric here?" Nate asked.
King Elijah shot him a disapproving look but answered anyway.
"He's the most sensitive among you three," he said calmly. "Surely, he'd agree to whatever we decide."
Xanden rolled his eyes.
"And your most favorite," he added under his breath, just loud enough to be heard.
King Elijah's gaze sharpened.
"We don't murmur in this room."
