"Little sister."
"Finally, you are here, brother. I need you to explain to me why the queen of Hale is still here, and why Lady Fayrouza was down there with you."
Apple swallowed as he walked toward Berryanna, who was seated in her chair in her office.
The room was quiet except for the soft sound of papers shifting beneath Berryanna's fingers. She did not look up. Her posture was calm, controlled, but Apple knew that silence meant danger.
"Are you in a good mood, or do you still need space?" Apple said as he sat in front of her.
Berryanna lifted her eyes briefly. Just once. It was enough to make Apple's back stiffen. She returned to reading the files on her desk like he was not even there.
"Do I have moods?" she said flatly. "What is it? What have you done, Apple?"
Apple leaned back slightly, then forward again, resting his elbows on his knees. He chose his words carefully.
