Zarek's arm was still around her when he spoke again.
"The seers will come for you tomorrow."
Eliora pulled back a little, her brows knitting together.
"For what?"
Zarek looked at her like the answer was obvious.
"For your refinement."
Eliora blinked. "My… what?"
"As per tradition," he said, calm and steady, "the Queen undergoes refinement before her coronation."
He moved his hand along her arm, his touch absentminded but grounding.
"It usually lasts seven nights."
Eliora frowned a little. "Seven nights?"
Zarek nodded. "But yours will be six."
She tilted her head again, clearly trying to keep up. "Why six?"
"Because you will not be leaving tonight." Zarek answered without hesitating
Eliora blinked, then blinked again.
"Why?"
Zarek's gaze didn't waver.
"You will stay here," he said simply. "With me."
Eliora pulled back a little more now, her eyes narrowing.
"And why exactly is that not negotiable?"
Zarek stepped closer instead of answering right away.
