Erin dropped to one knee so fast the surrounding mana quivered. Her black hair spilled across her shoulders, eyes shining with reverence and unmistakable zeal.
"As you command, my lord," she said, voice trembling with excitement. "I will guard them with my life. Anyone who dares approach without your permission shall be reduced to ash."
Damon nodded. Before he could say anything further, Lola ran over to him and jumped onto him like she always did. "Uncle! Papa told me that this castle came from your tummy? Wow! You are so awesome!"
Damon laughed. "Dude, what the hell?"
Lola clung to him like a koala, tiny arms wrapped around his neck, eyes sparkling with unfiltered hero-worship. Damon bounced her lightly on his arm, trying and failing to look stern.
"I swear, John," Damon said, pointing an accusing finger at his brother, "one more 'uncle's tummy is magical' story and I'm feeding you to a hydra."
