Kaia's eyes softened at the memory, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "I was just a child."
"But you were a feisty child," Markus said, his tone light. "I miss that Kaia. The one who wasn't afraid to speak her mind, who believed she could conquer the world."
Kaia's smile faded slightly, and she looked down at her hands. "I miss her too," she said quietly.
There was a long pause, the night growing still around them. Finally, Kaia looked up at Markus, her eyes searching his. "Have you found your queen, Markus?"
Markus shook his head, a hint of sadness in his eyes. "No, Kaia. I wasn't as lucky as your brother. I haven't found her yet."
"I'm sorry," she whispered.
Markus gave her a reassuring smile. "It's alright. I'll keep ruling as best as I can and supporting those I care about. But
