Bab 118: Humble Pie

ELRETH

Her nerves fluttered as she made it to the council building and pushed open the door. They were all still there, and looked up, surprised—and wary—when she walked in. But they all, immediately submitted.

Elreth sighed. "I am so sorry," she said quietly, walking to the circle and taking her seat.

Lhern looked at her curiously. "For what, Sire?"

"Ugh, Lhern, it's Elreth, or El. For all of you. I'm sorry. I'm sorry I lost my temper. I'm sorry I refused to let you question further. I'm sorry I fought your questions at all. If I had been in your shoes, I would have thought and asked the same things—though perhaps not in the same way. I am… I am learning, and tired, and generally still finding my feet. But I do not wish to rule this way. So, I am here to ask your mercy and forgiveness," she said, forcing herself to drop her head and roll her shoulders. "I'm here to ask you if you will allow me to begin again, better this time."