‘Sapphire, I’m not sure that’s best. Maybe in a few months?’ Araxia whispered.

‘No, Mother. I can handle this. I want to do this.’

Mother. The word Araxia had so badly wanted to hear. An undeniable glow washed over Sapphire. She felt slightly guilty for using the word for her own gain.

‘OK, then.’ Araxia smiled. ‘If my daughter believes she’s ready, I trust her intuition.’

The Princeps looked surprised, and a cumbersome silence settled in.

‘Sadara, I am so grateful that you are so concerned with my development. To know that the governing families are behind me as I make this transition offers me a sense of peace.’ Sapphire’s tone was dulcet, her smile gentle, and Kaian bit his lip like he was fighting back a laugh. But Sadara stared at her deadpan, unblinking.

‘Of course, Sapphire. It is our duty to seek what is best for Eriobis.’

‘Sadara.’ The queen’s voice was sharp. ‘I will advise you only once to treat my daughter’s and my own title with respect. I am your queen and she is your princess. And while we may have grown up together, you will refer to me properly. I’m sure you understand.’

‘Yes, your majesty. I do apologize for the indiscretion,’ Sadara muttered, not looking up from her plate.

Conversation lapsed for the remainder of the meal.

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Sapphire wandered into the library as the sun set, searching each aisle for Evera. When she found her friend, she felt the tension between her shoulders relax for the first time all day.

‘Glad to see you made it out alive from lunch.’

‘How did you know?’

‘The staff gossips more than you’d expect.’ Evera pulled her into a hug. ‘I had a feeling you’d end up here.’

Sapphire blew out a breath as she sank to the floor. Improper and unladylike, but she didn’t really care. Evera joined her without hesitation.

‘What’s weighing on you?’

Sapphire leaned her head back against the shelves.

‘I let my pride get the better of me today and jumped at the opportunity to duel Kaian.’ Evera went to speak but Sapphire raised her hand in protest. ‘I know. Trust me. But what was I supposed to do? Back down?’

‘That was an option.’

‘Well, it didn’t feel like it.’ She turned to look at her friend with a pleading expression. ‘I’m not sure how I’m supposed to defeat him with beginner’s technique. Araxia insists we take it slow, that I understand the magic. I’m a fool.’

‘You are not a fool. You are just …’ Sapphire couldn’t fight back a smile as Evera struggled to find the right word. ‘Eager. You are eager. And luckily for you, you have friends in high places.’

Sapphire arched a questioning brow.