Neriah held a soft blue shawl against her shoulders, checking her reflection in a polished copper mirror.
"I think it suits you," a voice said behind her.
She turned.
It was Alistair.
He looked much younger here, dressed simply, without armor. His smile was warm and a little shy.
"You think so?" she asked, lifting one corner of the cloth.
"Yes," he said. "Blue brings out your eyes."
Neriah looked down, trying to hide the smile spreading on her lips.
They spoke for a while... about the market, about Dravenmoor, about the strange sea creatures she'd seen. He laughed easily, and she found herself laughing with him.
Then a shadow fell across them.
"I see you have met my commander. What are you two talking about?"
Neriah turned to see Prince Eryn standing there.
His expression was calm, but his eyes were sharp, watching Alistair carefully.
"Nothing serious, Eryn," Alistair said, stepping back. "Just talking about sea creatures."
