*Fiona*
Elara bursts into laughter.
"I didn't think you could make female friends; you must be a warrior like her."
My face heats, and Liora laughs.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Elara," Liora says, tilting her head. “I hope you're better company than your sister."
Elara curtsies, and I scoff. "By all means, make jokes at my expense."
I squeeze Elara's hand and lower my voice to whisper.
"Stay with her,” I whisper. “Don’t stray from her side, do you understand? Not for a moment. And don’t you dare go anywhere near Father or the Hyath delegation.”
Her brows knit. “Fiona—”
“Promise me,” I say, staring into her eyes.
She swallows and nods slowly. “I promise.”
I nod and look at Liora. “Keep her safe. Please.”
Liora’s gaze softens almost imperceptibly. She gives one short nod. “I wi
