Mariel felt better than ever, her mind at peace, her child was back and not angry at her.
She wanted this moment to last forever, to rest her head on Baren's shoulder, her eyes closed and breathing slowly.
But, Mariel realized that a few short seconds was all she could afford in the current situation.
After all, Baren showed up at the most complicated moment. Adam's appearance, Gladius's reveal, and his defense of Adam, then Istrid's attack and the way Baren's fly-in stopped her.
None of this made the situation any easier, and no matter what happened, they as nobles couldn't ignore The Rule of Power, especially when Osana already supported Adam. Their intentions were clear.
"What...? What did you say? You came here to save Osana?" Mariel gasped, taking a step back from shock.
Baren nodded deeply before turning to Osana and waving at her as if they had just met on the street and he was calling her to him.
