Despite my best questions and efforts towards Buckley; I learned little about the men in the room. From first glance I guessed them to be workers or dukes or some kind. Though they hardly looked the type to be friendly with the king. I knew Lionel to be far from accepting anyone at his table who didn’t have at least a hundred gold rattling around on them like spare change. Yet these men chatted away with each other with ease. 

With a gentle plop, I took my seat at the table. Feeling a knot rise in my chest as their attention drew towards me. The one closest to me spoke up first. Though he ignored my presence all together. 

“You know, I was stationed near the Eastern Kingdom years back. I have to say, the land was dry. Almost lifeless in all that heat.”

I sat tall in my chair as I said, “I find it quite an adjustment myself, getting used to this change of weather.”

“The merchants you have, they pass by—always whining about something. Louder when there was a crowd. So, it surprises me that you’re so quiet.” 

“Am I to be like my tradesmen?”

“I do believe that the people imitate their leader.” 

A man farther down the table chimed in. “I agree. Leadership does set the tone, after all. And I’ve always found the people of your kingdom… difficult to tolerate. Though I’m sure that has nothing to do with you, Your Highness.”

“I’ve always thought architecture—the bones of a place—speaks louder than its people. Their homes are built to dazzle, to dominate.”

“And I’d argue their clothing says even more. All that gold and silk, layered on without restraint. It’s sickening, really—how much time is wasted crafting such frivolity.”

With each passing word, I focused on my breathing, as Collins had taught me. His lessons echoed in my mind: “They will insult you—some openly, others with care. They will size you up and dislike what they think they see. Remember, it’s Vivian they oppose, not you. Hold onto that, and with your best efforts, don’t provoke them in return.”

The doors rattled before swinging open. Wulfric entered, his attire noticeably more relaxed than before. The heavy embroidered coat was gone, replaced by a soft buttoned shirt that complemented his black boots. 

Edric and Liam followed close behind—their unusual presence provided some comfort. Even with the king in front, Edric still had an air of command to him. A quiet authority that hushed the men around us as he sat down. Followed by Liam, who looked more bored than anything. 

At their arrival the food was brought out: fresh breads, warm soup, and cooked venison. The best cuts, I noticed, had all been placed on my plate. Kind, though I’d never cared much for deer—its flavor always too sweet, with no real fat. Still, after hours spent touring and missing lunch, it was more than enough.

“Princess,” Wulfric said, “May I ask if the meals are like this back home?”

“Oh.” I took a sip of my stew, biding time as I recalled all the dinners Vivian demanded were cooked to perfection. “We don’t have much deer. I’ve always preferred stuffed chicken.” 

“Ungrateful,” someone muttered.

“And how was your tour of the castle?” Wulfric asked. “Your room—was it to your liking?”

“Everything was lovely. I can’t imagine a better place to spend my time.”

“Have you walked the grounds yet? My groundskeeper takes great pride in the layout she’s designed.”

“No, I haven’t.”

The men’s expressions twisted, as though the food had soured in their mouths. I tightened my grip on my spoon; I didn’t care whether they liked me or not, but to be so openly insulting, right to my face…

Edric cleared his throat. “Your Majesty, I believe I neglected to mention something in my report—the one Liam shared with me.”

“You’re usually precise the first time, Everly. What’s come to mind now?”

“Well, after his… adventure, Liam found himself in a rather peculiar situation.”

Liam’s head darted up. “Let’s not bore everyone with the details. Especially when they don’t matter.” 

“Of course they do,” Edric replied mildly. “You see, he became tangled in vines, suspended headfirst above the forest floor. It was thanks to Her Highness that he managed to free himself.”

“Is that so?” Wulfric said, a light smile forming. “Then I believe we owe Her Highness our thanks.”

“Wait,” someone said. “How did you end up in a tree?”

“It wasn’t my fault!” Liam shouted. 

Edric gave me a subtle wink and I murmured a quiet thank you as the table erupted into laughter, light jabs traded freely. With each passing moment, they seemed to forget I was there at all. Even Wulfric joined in, though his amusement was gentler than the rest. 

By the time dinner ended, I was little more than a fly on the wall. I ate quietly, then rose and made for the door as fast as I could. Eager to sleep the night away, mostly from them. But just as my hand reached the handle, Wulfric’s voice stopped me.

“Vivian, before you go?”

I turned.

“I want to apologize,” he said. “My absence may have allowed… some liberties. My men are quick to judge, and they don’t hold your people in high regard. If anything was said, it shouldn’t have been. I’ll see to it.”

“It’s already forgotten, Your Majesty.”

“Please,” he said gently. “When we’re alone, no titles. Wulfric will do.”

Silence stretched between us, and I felt all the more anxious to leave. 

“I’d feel remiss offering only words,” he continued, rubbing his hand against his chin. “I’ve heard you enjoy horse–riding. I’ll arrange for you to take my horse out tomorrow. Liam can accompany you through the grounds.”

“That’s very kind of you.”

“It’s nothing. Consider it done.”

“I gave a forced smile as he bowed and walked off, my head aching at the realization: If I’m Vivian, then I have to do the things Vivian likes. I don’t know the first thing about riding a horse..!