Phoebe studied Elizabeth with new eyes, recognising the calculated intimidation tactic for what it was. The princess had deliberately escalated to demonstrate that she was not to be underestimated or patronised. It was a move Phoebe herself might have employed when dealing with challenging Alpha males who thought they could dismiss a female Luna.
"Perhaps," Phoebe suggested carefully, "a standard training match would be most appropriate. No handicaps necessary."
Elliot watched the subtle interplay of power around the table, his analytical mind piecing together a clearer picture of Elizabeth Pearson. She wasn't just politically astute; she was dangerous in ways he hadn't anticipated. The quiet girl from the Academy library suddenly seemed like a carefully crafted disguise rather than her
