Malrik POV

Just as we prepared to step forward, the sound of hurried footsteps echoed behind us. Dashira and Zenovia emerged, both visibly flustered. One glance at their ruffled appearance, and it was obvious they’d been held up at the checkpoint. How appropriate, I mused.

Aunt Dashira was long overdue for a dose of humility a reminder that her bloodline didn’t crown her royalty, no matter how high she held her chin.

She didn’t waste a second before launching into a tirade.

"Those ...