“You no longer have to serve the Ascended.” Vessa was so unbelievably still. “I do not serve them while I wait.” “Then who is it you serve?” I asked. “Who else but the True Crown of the Realms, silly girl?” “I am neither silly nor a girl,” I said coolly, setting the ledger on the tea table, assuming she referenced the Blood Crown. Vessa gave a shaky bow I feared would topple her. “My apologies, Your Highness. I’ve lost all sense of coyness with age.” I said nothing for a long moment, letting the insult roll off me. I’d been called far worse and dealt harsher insults. “How is it that you serve
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