The next day...
Queen Maravelle stood by the window in the king's chambers. She turned slowly as Thornak and Lara entered.
"What are you doing here?" Thornak asked, surprised.
Maravelle looked past him, her sharp gaze landing on Lara. Her eyes narrowed at once.
"And why are you on your feet?" she asked.
Lara blinked. "I—"
"You were stabbed," Maravelle cut in. "You are carrying a child. Feeling fine doesn't mean you are fine."
Thornak frowned. "Mother—"
"I did not ask you," Maravelle said without turning her head.
She moved closer, already fussing. "I have ordered the cook to prepare a special soup for you. It will calm your stomach. The maid told me you have been vomiting all morning. You should not be feeling sick at all."
Lara opened her mouth, then closed it.
"And from now on," Maravelle continued, "your food will be handled only by me and your mother. No one else."
Lara looked startled. "Your Highness, that isn't necessary—"
"It is," Maravelle said simply.
