Everything spiraled out of control faster than Valentin could blink. The moment he heard Riona was in danger, he shot to his feet and stormed to the chamber without letting time pass to process the information.
Elder Alera, refusing to be left behind, followed close on his heels, while Lord Marius kept a respectful distance, giving them space but staying within earshot.
"What do you mean she's the Blood Moon child?" Valentin demanded. His voice betrayed his anxiety.
It was the first time he'd let his emotions get the better of him since he lost his temper with Riona the other day.
"Shouldn't you know? You're her uncle. Don't you know her birthday?" Elder Alera snapped, barely able to conceal her impatience.
It was so uncharacteristic of her as an elder, who was supposed to be wise and calm at all times. But this matter was urgent, and she didn't have the energy to feign patience.
