The summons instructed me to appear before Silverpine's governing elders at one that afternoon.By twelve-thirty, Azriel and I were inside the private elevator descending toward the underground garage. He had arranged no attorneys, investigators, or security team beyond the driver waiting downstairs.For once, he hadn't decided what I needed before asking. "Do you want me inside the chamber?" he asked."You're already accompanying me.""That wasn't my question."I glanced at him. Only a few nights ago, he would have entered Silverpine beside me and called it inevitable. Now, he was willing to wait outside its gates unless I gave him permission to cross them."Yes," I answered. "I want you beside me."His olive eyes remained on mine. "Anything else?""Do not answer for me. Speak only if the elders question you.""Done."The elevator doors opened. Azriel offered no unnecessary reassurance as we entered the waiting vehicle. He didn't tell me that I would win or promise to destroy anyone
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