Kyle led Grand Duchess Amanda through the village's dusty paths toward the best inn it had to offer.
It was a modest structure compared to the grand halls of noble estates, but Kyle had ensured it was cleaned, reinforced, and prepared ahead of her arrival.
Queen circled overhead once before perching quietly atop a chimney, watching the pair disappear inside.
Kyle helped Amanda out of her cloak and personally set her travel bag down in the corner of the room.
He took a quick glance around, visibly displeased by the plain walls and the worn wooden furnishings.
"I apologize. This place is still under construction. If things had gone according to schedule, the proper base would've been completed by now. Next time, I promise a far better welcome."
He said, rubbing the back of his neck.
Amanda removed her veil, revealing her composed, elegant face.
"You worry too much. I've lived through war zones and slept on blood-soaked dirt. This is a palace in comparison."
