I felt Ahbi stir but cut her off before her "helpful suggestions" could start in a steady stream of confusing me.

"Thank you," I said with as much humble appreciation as I could muster.

Ahbi's mind snapped against mine. What are you doing? Her anger popped and crackled. You are RULER. Do not give them leeway.

Grandmother. I firmly pushed her back. I'm handling this. Now hush.

She stomped her mental foot before turning her back on ...