Metheea bent over the table, eyes tracing the long list of supplies. Her office was alive with movement, people coming in and out to report on the progress of preparations. She kept her focus steady, signing notes, giving short instructions, and listening to the flow of voices around her.
The door opened and Kalistra entered with a grave expression. She stepped aside to let in a balding man who bowed with stiff formality.
"Greetings to the Princess," the man said.
Kalistra moved forward. "Your Highness, this is my father, Lord Revines."
The lord inclined his head once more before speaking. "Your Highness, I come with troubling news. The merchant from whom the palace ordered the stags has suddenly withdrawn. Only this morning a messenger arrived saying they can no longer deliver the animals as promised. Their supply was attacked by bandits in the mountains."
