AUTHOR’S POV
The room fell silent as Dorian's words echoed down the hall. His mother turned to face him, shock on her face, and one of the kings began to speak, attempting to calm the situation.
"We understand the gravity of Queen Nerida's request, but it is for the greater good. The riptide is open, and we must—" he said, but Dorian cut him off, his voice bitter and angry. “I know the riptide is open, but I don’t care.” He turned to Nerida, who continued to stare at him as if taken aback.
"Why are you lying to the people?" he demanded, and Nerida's eyes widened.
"What are you talking about? The rip tide is open. You saw it for yourself,” she said, but Dorian interrupted her with his voice still loud.
"That is not what I am talking about, and you know it!" he snarled. "I am talking a
