A Suitable Candidate

Evana sighed, her eyes lingering on the sight of her little sister playing with Arabelle, Caius and the twin babies. The carefree laughter and joyful shrieks that filled the air were a stark reminder of the innocence that should define Dora's world. This—this was the life a child deserved, filled with happiness and play, not the burden of adult decisions. Yet, Dora was willing to sacrifice everything, this was a thought that filled her with complicated emotions.

"Why the deep frown?" Nora's voice broke through her thoughts, drawing her back to the present. "You've been kind of lost all day. Did something happen between you and Lucy?"

Evaba looked up at Nora and grimaced. She needed the advice though she felt ashamed to ask for it. "I... I don't even know where to start."

"From the starting would be good." Nora pointed out, making Evana smile a bit as she began," I've been asked to step down from the throne."