Felix did not have to pull upon her hair to make her flinch. The biting reply was enough. Lioriley fell silent, her mind already racing with the possible, logical reasons why an inherited title would be brought upon someone who did not want it. A banishing of those of higher rank, the revelation of an affair that did not see the heir as true blood of the ruler, a death. Multiple deaths. Assassinations. Betrayal. She had seen them all, watched families fall apart where those that could have ruled - should have ruled - were systematically eliminated until the last remained, whether by bad luck or purposeful moves. The way Felix spoke suggested he had not tried to usurp the title - and that only made her stomach tie itself in knots.

"I am sorry, Felix." For whatever had happened. For bringing it up to begin with. "I know my words do not mean much, but I am sorry."