"How distasteful. If you're a guest of our house, at least show some basic manners."
I kept my voice level, just as Alice would. Calm. Cutting.
"I'd suggest you refrain from projecting your inferiority complex here, Gareth Valstein."
The moment the words left my mouth, I knew they landed.
Alice wouldn't have stayed silent after an insult—especially not one aimed at her or her family. She'd have stood her ground, no matter the setting.
Gareth flared. "Inferiority complex?!"
"Well," I said, gently tilting my head, "isn't a Snow Lion considered a more valuable prey than a few Redhorn Bucks?"
Hans's voice echoed in my memory.
"To think she brought down a Snow Lion... even I can't remember the last time that happened during a Trial."
It wasn't just rare. It was legendary.
Gareth's lips curled, but his eyes betrayed the sting. He wasn't angry at me—he was angry at Alice.
Angry that she'd once again outshone him.
