AIDEN POV
I stepped forward before anyone else could react, placing myself between the strange Fae being and Lily.
"Wait," I said strongly. "Before anyone claims anyone as family, we need to establish exactly who we're dealing with and what authority you have here."
The old Fae tilted her head, looking amused. "A minister. How nice. Very well, young Alpha. I am Lady Seraphina, First of the High Court, grandmother to Queen Titania herself."
My blood went cold. I'd heard whispers of Lady Seraphina in the oldest diplomatic papers. She was older than most countries, more powerful than entire armies, and apparently hadn't been seen in a thousand years. "With respect, Lady Seraphina," I said carefully, "that doesn't explain why you're calling Lily your granddaughter."
"Doesn't it?" She smiled, and starlight seemed to dance in her eyes. "Tell me, child," she said to Lily, "what do you know of your grandmother's family line?"
