The prince dismisses the meeting, and the knights and Lady Beatrice file out of the throne room, their minds heavy with the weight of their new mission. Alaric finds himself walking alongside Beatrice, their steps falling into sync as they make their way to the dining hall.
Aerion clears his throat, breaking the silence between them.
Lady Beatrice, I must admit, I'm impressed by your willingness to put yourself in harm's way for the sake of the kingdom. It's not often that a noblewoman of your stature would engage in such dangerous work.(Aerion)
Beatrice glances at him, a small smile playing on her lips.
You flatter me, Aerion. But I assure you, I am more than capable of handling myself. Besides, I have a personal stake in seeing this ritual thwarted and those responsible brought to justice.(Beatrice)
Aerion nods, his curiosity piqued.
I understand. But if you don't mind me asking, what is your personal connection to this matter? Is it related to your rivalry with House Astralis?(Aerion)
It's not a good topic to talk here at this time (Beatrice)
Aerion and Alaric nods, understanding Beatrice's desire to change the subject. They enter the dining hall, where the prince and the other knights are already seated at the long table. The aroma of roasted meat and freshly baked bread fills the air, and Alaric's stomach growls in response.
The prince looks up as Alaric and Beatrice approach, gesturing for them to take their seats.
Ah, Sir Alaric, Lady Beatrice, please join us. I trust you're both hungry after our meeting.(Prince)
Indeed, Your Highness. The discussions were quite... stimulating.(Alaric)
Alaric glances around the table, noticing that Aerion and the Commander are seated at the far end, engaged in a heated discussion. They seem to be arguing in low voices, their expressions serious. Alaric frowns slightly, wondering what could be causing such a intense conversation between the two.
The prince follows Alaric's gaze, his own expression turning thoughtful. Ah, Sir Aerion and Commander Thorne.
They've been at it for some time now, discussing the strategic implications of our intelligence. It seems they have differing opinions on the best course of action.(Prince)
Alaric nods, his mind drifting back to the earlier conversations about the ritual and the involved houses. He leans in closer to the prince, lowering his voice.
Your Highness, I couldn't help but notice the tension between Sir Aerion and Commander Thorne.(Alaric)
The prince leans back in his chair, swirling the wine in his goblet thoughtfully.
Ah, yes. Sir Aerion and Commander Thorne have always had a... complex relationship. They are both skilled leaders, but their approaches often differ. It's a delicate balance, keeping their rivalry from boiling over into something more.(Prince)
Alaric nods, taking a sip of his own wine. He watches as Beatrice engages in a lively conversation with the vice commander, her laughter ringing out across the table. Despite the gravity of their earlier discussions, there's a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among the knights and nobles present.
The prince's gaze follows Alaric's, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth.
Lady Beatrice is a remarkable woman, isn't she? Her intelligence and courage are unmatched. I have no doubt that she will be an invaluable asset to our mission.(Prince)
Alaric feels a flush creep up his neck at the prince's words, and he quickly takes another sip of wine.
Yes, Your Highness. She is indeed... remarkable.On the same topic how about your engagement?(Alaric)
The prince's expression softens, and he sets his goblet down, his fingers tracing the intricate patterns etched into the metal.
Ah, my engagement. It's a sensitive topic, to be sure. Princess Lyra is a wonderful woman, and I am honored to be betrothed to her. However, the political complexities of our union are... considerable.(Prince)
Alaric leans in, his curiosity piqued.
May I ask, Your Highness, what are the political implications of your engagement? I've heard whispers, but I'm unsure of the full extent.(Alaric)