Queen's trial #3

Away from the temple grounds, Prince Thane was a bundle of nerves, though he did his best to mask it beneath a facade of calm strength—for the sake of his family and, most importantly, his people who watched his every move. Behind him, Axel and Asher whispered in hushed tones, their voices barely audible over the tense silence.

“Let’s make a bet,” Axel murmured, leaning closer. “The Crown Princess will come out with only a few scratches.”

“Can you stop blabbering?” Asher snapped quietly, throwing him an irritated glance. “Our prince is already under enough pressure as it is.”

Prince Thane shot Asher a grateful look before turning a sharp glare on Axel, who immediately straightened his posture and fell silent, guilt written all over his face.