I stepped forward, untangling my hand from Caelan's. "You're not welcome here."
Vaelaryn's gaze fixed on me. "Oh, but I was invited."
He gestured to Zynarion, still kneeling, his eyes wide in something between awe and dread.
"Loyal little prince," Vaelryn said with a smirk that didn't quite reach his eyes. "He fed me your movements, whispered your weaknesses, and in return, I offered him much more than you can imagine.
Lady Nerisca finally found her voice. "You said you would protect us. That this alliance—"
"Was always in my favor," Vaelryn finished coldly. "You were never more than a pawn, Aunty, one who grew tiresome the moment Ardanis fell."
Caelan moved beside me again. "We are not afraid of you."
"No?" Vaelryn tilted his head. "Then why do your tides recoil before me?"
