The guards froze, their faces paling as the Dragon Prince's presence washed over them like fire.
Rosa's eyes widened. "Y-Your Highness, I—this is not what it looks like—"
Vanda stepped closer, his boots striking the stone like thunder. His hand flicked, and in an instant, the guards fell to their knees, clutching their throats as though an unseen force pressed against them.
"You dare raise hands against the weak?" His voice cut like steel. "Is this the honor of Arven?"
"P-please, Your Highness!" Rosa stammered, bowing desperately. "I was merely—"
"Enough." His gaze burned into hers, unflinching, merciless. "Do not test me again, Princess. There are flames you cannot hope to control."
He turned away from her, his cloak swirling, and extended a hand toward Daya. Trembling, she took it, and he pulled her gently to her feet.
For the first time in her life, Daya felt… safe.
But Rosa's heart twisted into pure hatred.