Aurora's POV

"You called for us, Your Highness."

"Yes. I did."

I let my gaze settle on them, sharp and deliberate. "What are your names?"

"Tess, Your Highness." The small one squeaked it out, her heartbeat rattling against her ribs.

"Maris, Your Highness," the other said, braver or simply hungrier.

I allowed a smile. "Good. Now I've heard it from your own mouths. So I'll know exactly who to blame if either of you disappoint me."

Their fingers twisted white in ...