Footmen bowed to them and opened the polished double doors to admit them into a large, already crowded drawing room. The walls were decorated with murals of countryside scenes, and the sumptuous furnishings were done up in gold brocade. Bookcases lined the back of the room from floor to ceiling, framing an ornately gilded door. The bookcases were filled with leather-bound volumes on history, warfare, statecraft, and other topics suitable for a future ruler; the warm smell of them mingled with the scent of the wax tapers and the perfumes of the various courtiers in attendance, forming an almost incense-like aroma that was very pleasant and cozy on such a stormy day. A large marble hearth took up the center of the right-hand wall. No fire burned there, as the day was warm in spite of the rain. The tall windows overlooking a smaller garden stood open to the damp breeze.

The usual courtiers and servants were there, including Reltheus, who clearly still occupied a place of honor among the assembly, and the unsociable Marquis Kyrin, Seregil noted with interest. Neither of them appeared to be worried about anything.

“Here you are!” Archduchess Alaya greeted them, kissing both of them lightly on each cheek. Then, lowering her voice, she confided, “You two have become quite the favorites, my dears, at least with the princess. Her mother is less enthusiastic. You’ll do well to stay out of her way.”

“Thank you for the warning,” Seregil murmured with a smile.

“Elani needs some friends outside of the court. Lord Alec, you’ve been a breath of fresh air for her.”

Alec bowed, coloring a little at the unexpected praise.

“And I’m so sorry about your friend, Lady Kylith.”

“Thank you, dear lady. The pain lingers on, but she’s vibrant in memory,” Seregil replied with genuine feeling.

Alaya flitted on, teasing Earl Stenmir about something. Seregil looked around at the crowd, then brushed Alec’s hand with his own and inclined his head in the direction of Elani across the room. She was laughing with General Sarien.

“Interesting that such a busy fellow has time for court pleasantries,” Seregil murmured. The thought that the general might well be planning harm to the girl he was now charming was chilling. “Though it’s hardly surprising that he has access to her, both for his rank and position. He’s an archduke.”

Apart from General Sarien, everyone was gorgeously attired and bejeweled today. Elani was resplendent in a crimson gown and ruby-studded neckband and girdle; her hair was dressed with jeweled pins. Catching sight of them, she came over to greet them with warm delight.

“Thank you so much for attending,” she said, extending her hand to them in turn.

“The pleasure of your company is always a ray of sunshine, Highness,” Seregil said, gesturing at the rain-lashed windows overlooking the queen’s garden. “And what better day for sunshine?”