20 ELENA The next morning, Delma entered the room early, saying, "Lord Andreas is waiting for you in the courtyard," and my fear immediately surged. He didn't come to me at night, but he didn't hesitate to call for me during the day. In recent days, I could no longer predict where or how he would appear before me. I went to a small training area in the castle courtyard. Andreas was there, sword in hand, training with a few soldiers. When Andreas saw me, he thrust his sword into the ground and said, "Come." His voice was colder than usual. When I approached, he began, "I want to ask something of you. Get to know the women of the clan, especially those from a few prominent families. Some noble ladies wish to meet you. As my wife, you should be close to them." "Okay," I said briefly.

