“You have a very good fiancé, Xiaodan,” the queen said approvingly. “Were he human and unclaimed, I would have married him off to one of my daughters by now.” “Very fortunate, then, that he is neither of those,” Xiaodan responded glibly. The queen’s wandering eyes rested on Remy. “I’m sure there are others who have served Aluria nobly who would be just as qualified for such an honor.” “I’m sure you will find many of those even beyond this throne room.” Xiaodan’s reply was much more acidic in tone this time, but Queen Ophelia only laughed, looking oddly pleased with herself.
