Leila sat in her library, an old book spread open on a table. She looked up when the doors opened and her son and husband walked in.
Liam’s steps were slow, his face heavy with thoughts. Damian followed behind him.
“Mother,” Liam began, his voice low, “what do you think of Aeon and his son?”
Leila closed the book gently. Her gaze moved from Liam to Damian before she answered. “They have not lifted sword against us,” she said. “No threat, no insult. They should be treated as kin.”
Damian leaned against the stone wall, folding his arms across his chest. “She speaks true. We gain nothing by making them enemies. Better to keep them close, better to watch them. Close kin are easier to guard than hidden foes.”
“You would have me welcome them openly?” Liam asked.
“Yes,” Leila answered softl
