“Then at least accept these, Highness.” He untied half a dozen of the best shatta dangling from his quiver and presented them to her, a collection of carved gold, silver, ivory, two jades, and a carnelian. “They’re from Aurënen, and they’re called shatta, which means ‘prize.’ Archers win them from one another in matches like this.”

Elani held them up, admiring them. “Yes, I know. Aunt Klia has some, from her time in that land. I gathered from how many you have that you must be very good. Thank you for these. Perhaps I’ll start the custom here.” She turned to her uncle in the next list over. “How are you and Lord Seregil faring, Uncle?”

Korathan gave Seregil a wry grin. “If we’re going to start that custom today, my dear, then Lord Seregil owes me a good many more shatta than that.”

They sat in the shade of a large grape arbor after that and drank chilled wine, then it was clear that Alec and Seregil were expected to take their leave. Alec left with a parting promise to send directions to Radly’s shop in Wolde and set off for the stables.

Reltheus excused himself and accompanied them.

“You’ve certainly made a favorable impression on the princess,” he said as they walked along. “Especially you, young Alec. You should be careful, or you’ll make your lover here jealous.”

“He has no reason to be,” Alec replied, coloring a little.

Reltheus chuckled at that. “Many young men would be pleased with such a conquest.”

“I’d hardly say he conquered me,” Seregil said with a smile.

Reltheus blinked, then got the joke. “I’ve heard you called the most amusing man in Rhíminee, Seregil. Since I’ve gotten to know you, I think I may just agree. Will you dine with me tonight, gentlemen?”

“Why, we’d be delighted!”

“I’ll send a carriage for you. I don’t suppose you could bring that actor fellow along?”

“I believe he’s onstage tonight, unfortunately,” said Alec.

“Let’s go and see him, then! My wife has been badgering me to take her. We can dine afterward.”

Bidding the duke farewell at the stable gate, they got their horses from the liveried stable boy and set off for home.

“Well, how did I do?” asked Alec.

“Very well, talí. But you noticed we weren’t invited inside with the others? Korathan whispered a little warning to me while you and the princess were shooting.”

“Really? What did he say?”

“Just that while Elani has taken a liking to you, Phoria will most likely put a stop to it when she comes home. We’re not the sort of company she’ll want her future queen to keep. Then again, maybe Elani will have some say in the matter. We’ll just have to wait and see. Enjoy it while it lasts!”