Alderic's eyes narrowed further, but he said nothing, his mind racing with ways to turn the situation to his advantage. His usual tactics of intimidation and command were useless in this context, where he was surrounded by individuals who were not only unimpressed by his status but also unafraid to challenge him.
Mary, always one to relish in discomforting others, smirked at the prince's discomfort. "You can glare all you want, but it won't change your situation," she teased. "Might as well get comfortable."
Rossette shifted slightly, her earlier anxiety now mixed with sympathy. Despite the prince's arrogance, she understood the humiliation he was experiencing, stripped of his authority and held captive. Yet, she remained firm in her resolve. His presence was a threat to their safety, and they couldn't afford to let their guard down.