The derision in the girl’s tone immediately raised Telli’s hackles and her hands clenched around the head of her cane. The scent of ozone filled the air, reminiscent of the moment before lightning struck, and Telli had to concentrate to keep sparks from crackling around her fingers.

She drew in a few deep, slow breaths while she acknowledged and let go of her anger. It took several breaths, but she regained control and the scent of ozone began dissipating.

“Well to be honest I was never particularly proud of it, but that’s why I left. Guarding His Imperial Highness is much more my style.”