Malrik POV

“All I hear is you twisting facts to tarnish Dravina.”

My words came out like steel, clipped and unyielding.

“You’re trying to link her to a massacre, to cast her as a fugitive, and at the same time, you sprinkle in sympathy for Zenovia, hoping it’ll make me hesitate.”

I leaned forward, locking eyes with her.

“It won’t work, Aunty.”

Her face tightened with frustration, and she shook her head furiously.

“Stop it, Malrikarion I’m serious!” Her voice ...