Chapter 21 Where Claims Are Made Without Asking
Maharlika did not raise her voice. She did not need to. The grove was still rearranging itself when she stepped forward, every movement precise, every pause deliberate enough to feel intentional. “Silawán,” she said. He turned. Amihan hates how easily he did. Maharlika placed herself at his side, not touching him at first. Just close enough that their shoulders nearly aligned, their silhouettes overlapping in a way that suggested history rather than desire. “I have been silent long enough,” Maharlika said, her gaze lifting to the watching court, to Liraya, to the trees themselves. “Silence implies consent. I withdraw mine.” The air tightened. Kisê whispered, “I would like to be anywhere else.” Liraya’s eyes gleamed. “This is not your court.” “No,” Maharlika agreed calmly. “But i
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