Chapter 89: YOU MUST RETURN HOME

“What are you thinking, Duchess Ongard?” Xina asked, her head tilted slightly to the side. “Do you still believe it’s unfortunate for a human to become your queen?” As Xina sat across from the Duchess, she felt as if she was beginning to truly grasp the complex dynamics among the zamuda and other shifters in this realm. Disdain for humans ran deep, something Xina hadn't anticipated. She didn’t sense such overt hostility from the zamuda, but there were certainly those who cast cold, indifferent gazes her way. If not for their duty to show respect, Xina doubted they’d even spare her a second glance. This recurring need to prove herself exhausted her, but it was a feeling Xina had long come to terms with. Her entire life had been a series of battles to prove her worth. No one had handed her anything. She’d always had to fight for her place. The Duchess smiled, though Xina knew that whatever came next wouldn’t be pleasant. "I’m simply curious," the Duchess began, her voice sweet yet tin