If Vikram's intention was to provoke Hadrian, he had succeeded spectacularly. The future king looked like he was seconds away from losing control.

“Hadrian... please... calm down,” I whispered softly, hoping my voice would reach him before his fury boiled over. I could already picture his claws slicing Vikram’s throat in a fit of rage. My only hope was that he’d focus on me instead of unleashing disaster.

His blazing eyes locked onto mine, and my silent plea seemed to reach him. ...