Seraphina looked genuinely shocked now, clearly not expecting this level of confrontation.
And then, of course, someone had to intervene.
"But this is not 'your' empire."
Kieran's voice cut through the tension. He stepped forward from where he'd been standing with the other consorts, his military bearing making the movement commanding.
"This is 'our' empire," Kieran continued, looking at Larus with barely concealed hostility.
Larus turned to look at Kieran, and his expression shifted to something almost playful.
"I know, dear 'brother'," he said sweetly.
Kieran actually stumbled slightly. "'Brother?'"
Larus covered his mouth with one hand, turning to look down at Heena with wide, innocent eyes. "Your Majesty, did I say something wrong?"
Heena was controlling her laughter with every ounce of discipline she possessed.
