Atlan raised a brow without breaking his glare. "She is my mother. Nothing will change that."
"Nothing?" Inara scoffed in disbelief. "You're worthless, Atlan. You are a nameless being created by a monster."
Atlan stared at her, his expression dull, unaffected by her venomous words.
"You've always been so bitter," he said, his voice grim and steady. "I'm glad to see you haven't changed. Not even a little bit."
"I can't believe this." Inara's teeth clenched, her voice trembling. "She... She.. favors even someone like you over me. I will show you all. I will!"
With a swirl of her skirts, she stormed away, weaving through the halls and stairs with haste. She burst into Lysander's chamber, and a soft smile touched her lips as eyes fell upon her bed. Lysander slept peacefully, his siblings nestled beside him.
