ADELINE
The moment I enter the hall, I feel the weight of countless gazes on me.
Unlike before, these gazes are not just curious but rather they seem mocking and despising.
However, I keep my eyes ahead, looking straight at Drystan who is occupying the throne in the center.
When he lifts his head, I hold my breath.
But Drystan looks past me as if I don't exist, and raises his hand, "Come here."
The soft fabric of Julia's dress brushes my arm as she walks past me.
Drystan pulls her onto his lap, playing with her hair distractedly.
My heart twists as tears spring in my eyes.
"Kneel, traitor!" A voice thunders in the hall as the Second Elder steps forward, bristling with anger.
I freeze for a moment.
But I don't kneel. I keep my back straighter than it was yesterday as I look at the people in the room.
"Are you defying the commands?" The First elder, visibly more composed, steps forward.