Giving how those Elves behave previously, the current treatment is necessary. Those elves need this treatment to ensure loyalty.
Once Ed gain their respect and loyalty (or fear), Ed can slowly show his good side.
I wonder if the elders will think of trying to backstab him because he went soft on them so to speak. Then Ed has to make an example of them. Maybe evening being killed in the future only to come back and kill said killer and then be in charge after a ruthless beat down on them?
