The air rippled, and the portal opened in a clean, sharp flash of white. Gavriel stepped through first. But the moment Zander saw who followed behind him, his brows creased in shock.

“Your Majesty… Queen Mother?” Zander blurted, unable to hide his confusion. “I thought Archmage Uriel would accompany—”

“He stayed behind,” Gavriel cut in. “I brought my mother. Take us to Riela. Now.”

Zander straightened immediately and nodded. “O-of course. This way.”

He led them ...