Serai took shuddering breaths, counting down the seconds with the beats of her heart, until she was sure Erol had actually left. Then, she released the remains of her shield back into the ethereal flow and dropped into the cushions. Fifi crept out from her hiding place beneath the table on silent hooves and rubbed herself against Serai’s ankle.

Erol had always been a powerful enemy. Thirteen years ago, Serai had overheard him talking with a horrified Leila about tampering with the cliff-climber that had caused her accident. Over the years, and the many military campaigns Erol had successfully led, Serai’s battle against him had only grown harder. Still, to have her defense crack after a single blow…

“Are you okay, Serai?” Taras warm, calloused hands settled on Serai’s shoulders.

“I’m uninjured.” Serai leaned her head into the maid’s arm and let out a soft sigh.

“That isn’t what I asked.” Taras began to knead the stress out of Serai’s muscles.

“That interaction was…suboptimal.” Serai’s eyebrows twitched as Taras pressed harder into her shoulder blades. “I’m going to be exhausted until that solar panel is fixed, which will be quite annoying.” The princess chewed her lip as Taras’ expectant silence stretched. “Having my shield break so easily rattled me a little.”

“That rattled all of us.” Taras’ hands glided up Serai’s neck toward her scalp, the princess’ favorite spot. Trying not to purr under her lover’s ministrations, Serai relaxed. “I’m glad Ferda managed to end things when they did,” Taras said.

Serai bit down hard on her lip. It was always Ferda taking care of things, saving the day while Serai was left powerless and weak. She could practically visualize Ferda outside spinning and dodging and taunting Erol before disappearing like a mirage. All Serai could do was make empty challenges and pretend at bravery.

“Your kleptomaniacal trash-imp has eluded justice, by the way.” Malek spoke from the doorway and Serai whipped around to stare at him. Between Serai’s dark thoughts and Taras’ soothing hands, she’d completely forgotten the bodyguard was there. “I was hoping to witness the crown prince finally putting that chattering pest in their place.” Malek shook his head and scoffed. “Somehow, against all logic, the peasant has escaped with the hand brake to the crown prince’s rumbler.”

“That’s Ferda for you.” Taras shrugged.

The princess let out a snort. As envious and disempowered as Ferda might make Serai feel, she was always glad to have them around. “I understand that you’re new here, Malek, but you really should have learned not to underestimate any of us by now.”