It Gets Worse

*Ana*

“A letter?” Something perks up. Is it from Father?

Has he written to say he’s coming back?

“Is it from the king?”Admiral Nugen, meanwhile, sounds just as optimistic.

Could it be Nicoli? Something jumps in my stomach. I love Father, but a letter from Nicoli would be -

“It is not.” Aunt Funda lowers the tray like my hopes. I spy the sunflower yellow wax of Almony.

“That’s… kind of Hidi.” She did say she would write. I do my best not to be disappointed.

Admiral Nugen, however, does not restrain his.

“That’s all you have?” Admiral Nugen looks over the tray.

“You don’t have anything else? Are you sure?”

“I know how to do my job, Admiral Nugen.” Aunt Funda says curtly.

“Doesn’t mean you can do it right.” Admiral Nugen meets her tone.

Aunt Funda lifts her brow at that. She looks after him before I see fangs come out.

“Are you suggesting I—”

“Thank you, Aunt Funda,” I cut over. “You can go now.”

“Yes, Your Empress,” Aunt Funda bows stiffly. She makes to leave, but not before gi