One Last Chance

The visitation to Norma went smoothly, and ever since the incident in the carriage, Raul had kept his distance. He allowed Niran to accompany the Queen wherever she went but never once stayed close to her.

That was until the rogues attacked.

It had been a long time since Niran had used her magic like this. She cast a protective barrier around the Queen and those uninfected while the King, Raul, and the soldiers fought off the attackers.

Her hands trembled as she maintained the shield. The effort drained her faster than she anticipated. As the last of the enemies fell, the barrier flickered before shattering into glowing embers. Niran staggered, breathless and lightheaded.

"Ah, I miss Dani and the rest, Milady," Niran said weakly, trying to mask her exhaustion with humor. "But I'm glad I was at your side and able to help, just like old times."

Queen Mineah chuckled. "They missed all the action."