Prince Althur inclined his head with perfect grace. "It is an honor to finally meet the Lady who bends kingdoms without lifting a blade."
…Oh, he spoke well too. Fantastic. Absolutely fantastic.
I returned the bow, smile measured, calm, and hopefully not betraying the fact that my mind was still screaming about shampoo commercials. "You flatter me, Your Highness. I merely dislike long travel."
A corner of his mouth twitched.
Hector visibly relaxed, like a man who had just prevented an international incident.
We took our places as the meeting began. Chairs scraped softly across marble. Scrolls were unfurled. Voices settled.
King Vael spoke, his tone measured and heavy with authority. "We are gathered today to discuss matters of trade, borders, and… recent developments."
I nodded, attentive.
Princess Milabuella shifted beside her parents. I felt her gaze again, sharp and curious, but I refused to engage. Later. Maybe. With wine.
