KODA'S POV
"I called you because I need your help," I said without preamble. "I want you to adopt Pavati and Ayasha."
Marcus stared at me like I had just asked him to throw himself off the castle walls. "What?"
"Temporary adoption," I clarified. "The trial requires the enemy Lunas to secure sponsorship from noble families. You're the only one I trust to keep them safe."
"No." The word came out flat and final.
I had expected resistance, but the immediate refusal still stung. "Marcus, just listen to me—"
"No, Koda." He shook his head vigorously. "Maybe the BlueRiver Luna could be considered, but not Ayasha.That girl is a political landmine. Taking her in would be signing our own exile."
"It's temporary. You would only be offering protection in name, not pledging allegiance—"
