"In the world of the Marrowgates, perception is reality," Elira said. She sounded almost carefree about it, but Maddox knew her well enough to hear the tension underneath. "If they can't find a scandal, they'll manufacture one. Rosana is a Tier 3 noble. She doesn't like losing, and she certainly doesn't like a 'loser' youth coach making her niece look like a fool in the standings."
"I'm sorry you're being dragged into this," Maddox said.
"Don't be. I've dealt with people like Rosana before. She's a shark, but I'm a kraken," Elira chuckled. "I'm not going to volunteer any information. In fact, I've already had my people send them a very polite, very terrifying cease-and-desist letter regarding the harassment of my person. Whether a Tier 3 noble or not, the Marrowgate Family isn't at the level of making me worried yet. But Eric, you need more than just a defense. You need a weapon."
"What are you suggesting?"
