The servants parted ways from the entrance of the palace and dropped to their knees as a lean, muscular man descended from the steps. He was garbed in a thick red cloak with beads and gold chains wrapped around it. A thick, bejeweled crown rested on his slick gray hair. His teeth glimmered beneath his smile. “The royal family of Krashna; we welcome you,” he boomed. He stopped when he was in front of the pair of them. He tilted his head up to peer at Darri. “I hope your travels were safe.” 

Maeva instantly dropped to a curtsy, while Darri took a second longer, as if imprinting his presence on the king. He dropped to his knees and rested a hand on his heart. Even though he was lowering himself in front of the king, it was clear to see who felt more intimidated. Darri was like a roaring flame; Maeva hoped she could one day hold the same fire he did. “Your Majesty,” he murmured. Since neither Darri nor Maeva were monarchs, it was obligatory for them to bow down to him, even if he wasn’t their king. Their actions were all intended to show respect. 

Mother and Father, who had at some point left their carriage, now stood beside Maeva and Darri. Maeva hadn’t even realized their presence, and by the looks of the servants, no one else had either. Unfortunately, their parents’ presences were almost overlooked because Darri’s presence commanded so much attention. 

Her parents nodded in acknowledgement. “Our travels were well. Thank you.” Father clasped his hands with those of the king of Jora and smiled at him. It was a fake smile, but no one would’ve known that. Every monarch perfected their business smile. She doubted that King Nafni’s smile was sincere either. Even she had practiced her own fake, saccharine smile after observing her parents. 

King Nafni released his hand, “You all must be tired from your journey. Please, come inside and rest. Your rooms are ready, along with your baths.” 

Maeva perked up at that. Her hair was thick with grease and grime clung to her body. It was all hidden beneath powders and perfumes, but she knew just how dirty she truly was. It was unbecoming for a princess to be in such a state. She sighed with relief and relaxed her shoulders. A bath sounded heavenly. Her movement caught the king’s eye and he turned to her with his plastic smile firmly fixed in place. His gaze penetrated her own and pinned her in place. She froze and her entire body stiffened until she was as rigid as a rock while she held his gaze. It was like he was analyzing every little detail about her life. 

His lips twisted into a smirk before he turned away. Whether he was satisfied or not, she wasn’t sure. “We can resume business once you’re all fresh and ready,” he motioned towards the servants. “Bring their luggage to their rooms.” 

She didn’t spot the royal family anywhere. Only maidservants and the king were present. Even as they entered the palace, she didn’t see anyone else. She gritted her teeth together. How incredibly rude of them! The entire royal family should’ve been there to greet them. Father’s words rang true at that moment. These people weren’t viewing them as equals. It was disrespectful, to say the least. 

Darri seemed to notice too. She could feel his muscles contract and stiffen from where she held him. His facial expressions remained glacial as he looked down upon all the people scurrying around them. A servant almost dropped one of the trunks at the sight of Darri, whose gaze seemed to drill holes into him. He glanced over at a shivering maidservant. “Do you need something?” he asked her when she didn’t move. 

She jerked backwards, “Y-Your Highness, I’m to lead the princess to her chambers.”

Maeva raised an eyebrow and blew out steam, “Well, Darri, it looks like we must part ways.” 

“Seems like it,” he said as he disentangled himself from her. “Have fun, sister.” 

“Will do.” 

“I look forward to meeting the rest of the family,” he said as he followed a servant to his room. He cast her a backwards glance, “Do not forget, Maeva.” 

“Yes, yes,” she waved at him as he went in the opposite direction as her. Do not forget that we are people of bravery and strength. She would never forget.