Chapter 9: Meeting the council
Ethan raised an eyebrow. "...How does she know my name?"
His gaze immediately shifted to Aeris, who, to his surprise, didn’t look surprised at all. On the contrary, she was already walking toward the woman with firm steps, straight posture, and a look full of confidence.
The woman, still wearing that elegant smile, opened her arms as if greeting someone she’d been expecting for a long time. Her pink eyes never once left Ethan, not for a single second. Intense, yet calm.
"Don’t worry," Aeris replied, glancing over her shoulder as if sensing his confusion. "She already knew we were coming."
Ethan narrowed his eyes, skeptical. "Hmph."
The woman walked toward them, her movements graceful, her posture flawless. Every step seemed rehearsed, carrying a perfect blend of elegance and authority.
"My name is Seraphina Lys," she introduced herself, placing a hand over her heart and offering a slight bow. "Archbishop of the Church of Aurelia and a member of the Inner Council."
Sylfie frowned, crossing her arms. "Huh. This sounds... more serious than I expected."
Aeris simply smiled, proud. "Obviously."
Seraphina glanced briefly at Sylfie before turning her gaze back to Ethan, keeping that same serene smile, yet very deliberately avoiding using any special titles for him in front of the forest elf.
"We were notified as soon as you left the temple," she explained, her voice smooth as silk. "All of us... were aware of your arrival. Long before, actually."