Moonspear my lord: the king is dead

The hesitation hung in the air between them, a bated breath. She sucked it in at the woman's question and shook her head—

At least with some level of surety.

Not yet, she replied, hunching her shoulders. My father reigns now; I'm sure he'll want me back. But I—

Thoughts of her mother's family flashed in her mind's eye, and she refused to squint her gaze against them.

I will travel, still, Madhu said, primly. She drew herself up, though still deferent to the queen of this mountain, eyes glittering. I will, perhaps, find vassals elsewhere for my king.