‘I’d love our children to get to know each other, my queen,’ Sadara said, feigning a smile.

‘Of course, Sadara. I’m sure Kaian could help Sapphire become more comfortable with Eriobis. He’s such a bright boy.’

‘Splendid. My attendants will send a letter soon. I feel they will become fast friends.’ Sadara placed her hand gently on the queen’s back. ‘Do you have a few moments to talk about something more serious?’

Araxia nodded and the group of four parents tucked themselves closer to one another. Sapphire turned away from them, leaning against the wall. A sudden wave of exhaustion took her over.

‘Long day?’

She jumped at the intrusion, turning to face Kaian. He smiled down at her.

‘A good day, but a long one.’

‘I can imagine. You did well, you know,’ he said, no trace of sarcasm in his voice.

‘I survived. I guess that’s all I can really ask for.’

‘No. You were really … rather impressive. Most of the other families were “happily surprised”, if I heard them correctly.’

She bit back a smile.

‘Most?’

‘Well,’ he said with a chuckle, pushing his hand through his hair roughly, ‘my parents are impossible to impress. But I wouldn’t worry too much about them.’ He cut his eyes to the corner where the group remained huddled.

‘They don’t seem overly fond of me,’ Sapphire agreed.

‘They aren’t overly fond of anyone. Except themselves, that is.’

Sapphire laughed loudly, and Tyden glanced in their direction. Kaian noticed, stiffening as he did.

‘Ah, the joy of being the family disappointment,’ he muttered, mostly to himself, before returning his gaze to her. ‘Feel free to say I was horrible. Entirely vile. That you could barely stand to be around me. I have a reputation to uphold, you know.’

‘You’re the worst I’ve met in Eriobis, truly repugnant.’

He chuckled again, shaking his head. ‘Your support is worth its weight in gold, highness.’

Their parents approached, breaking the conversation before she could respond.

‘Kaian.’ Sadara’s tone was sharp. ‘You darling girl, we are so happy you have rejoined us. The thought of the Canmore bloodline ending was … rather heartbreaking.’

Araxia took Sapphire’s hand, stepping up beside her.

‘Yes, well, luckily that is no longer a concern. The Canmore line continues, strong as ever.’

‘Yes, I can see. What a miracle. Your arrival is truly an unbelievable gift from the Elders.’

The malice and ill intent in her tone set Sapphire’s teeth on edge.

‘The Elders’ powers know no bounds,’ Sapphire said.

Sadara nodded, clucking her tongue.

‘Yes, well.’ She looked Sapphire up and down once more. ‘Time will reveal their intentions. Of that, I am sure.’

Araxia’s hand tightened around Sapphire’s, and she felt it. Rage. It bloomed in her stomach and poisoned her blood. The surge, the pulse, a storm building inside of her.