Perran blinked, his golden eyes narrowed as he regarded the green-haired woman standing silently before him.
"Why are you here?" he demanded, his frown deepening.
Olivia, the formidable first pillar of the Wendigos, executed a light, formal bow. "My Lord, you have a guest. She is waiting in the throne hall." Despite her terrifying strength and rank beneath the King, she maintained perfect deference to this disconcertingly powerful ten-year-old.
Perran raised an eyebrow. 'She was serious. Mother moved faster than usual.' He had anticipated the aid, but not the immediacy.
"Let's go."
He swept out of the room and headed for the ornate, winding stairway, setting a fast, deliberate pace. Olivia followed several feet behind, maintaining the respectful distance demanded by his immense power and arrogant temperament.
"What is her name?" Perran asked, without slowing.
"We don't dare to ask, My Lord," Olivia replied, her head remaining bowed.
