"Your Excellency," she greeted, curtsying deeply as I stepped down. "Thank you for accepting this meeting. I was deeply moved by your kindness toward Lady Celia at the ball."
Lady Celia.
So that was the name of the pale green flower who nearly watered the ambassador with wine.
"I was merely preventing an accident," I said.
"Even so, Your Grace spared her from great embarrassment. Her family, one of our vassals, remains grateful."
"I see."
Her smile faltered slightly.
Didn't expect that, did you?
Gratitude was useful only until it tried to become obligation.
Abi stepped down behind me, and the gathered group collectively paused.
He smiled at them.
One attendant looked like she forgot how breathing worked.
"Lord Abinatha Konstantin," Lady Marielle said after a second, recovering well. "It is an honor."
"The honor is all yours," Abi replied pleasantly.
I turned to him. But he looked innocent enough to get away with it.
