"Forgive us, Your Highness," the lead man said hastily, bowing low as he gestured frantically to his companions to lower their cudgels. "We beg you to pardon our sister as well. She harbors no malice, though she is far too quick to temper. Her heart is honest, please, do not hold this offense against her."
He nudged Xenia's arm, and she immediately bowed her head before the prince.
"I beg Your Highness's forgiveness for my sharp tongue," Xenia murmured, her voice now soft and trembling. "I swear I meant no disrespect to you."
"Is that so? Your apology seems fake to me, Miss Xenia. Pray we do not cross paths again," August declared sharply.
"Do not speak to my sister like that!" the young girl yelled out, entirely oblivious to the danger of her words.
"Lara, quiet!" Xenia whispered hurriedly, covering the child's mouth with her palm.
"Forgive little Lara, Your Highness," the second man, who bore a thick beard, pleaded hastily. "She is merely a child and knows no better."
