Desina’s gaze darted to the source of the commanding voice and met the eyes of a woman in her early forties. There was an air of authority about her, and Desina couldn’t help but feel a twinge of curiosity as to who she was. Unlike everyone else in the kingdom, who addressed Kealan with deference as “lord,” this woman had spoken his name directly, as though they were equals.
As Kealan’s darkened eyes softened at the sight of the woman, Desina’s confusion only deepened. Who was she to have such power over the dragon lord, who commanded respect and obedience from all who crossed his path? Desina watched in perplexity as Kealan made his way towards the woman, his demeanor shifting in a way that she had never seen before.
As Kealan approached the woman, Desina strained to catch their convers
