Devin hadnt thought that anywhere could be grander, but when they reached the feasting hall, he knew he was wrong. Hed been in it for brief moment before, but now he got a true look at it. This was a place that was the epitome of opulence, strung with decorations and pennants, gilded and with marble columns supporting arches overhead, with music coming from lutenists and trumpeters. There were people dancing and talking everywhere Devin looked, while at the far end of the hall, the king and his wife sat on thrones next to one another.

There are so many people, Devin said, and not just people, nobles. Devin could see the difference. Everyone there, even the servants, was dressed in ways that were more expensive than anything Devin owned, and he immediately felt as though he stood out in spite of his borrowed clothes helping him to blend in.

Rodry was there, next to his sister Lenore. Devin had seen her when she had been seeing Rodry off, but now… she was perfect. Her dark hair was lustrous and her body encased expertly in a dress of gold and green. Her features were delicate, and when she laughed at something Rodry said, Devin couldnt have imagined anything more beautiful.

Something caught at his heart then, sharp and almost painful. He felt as if he couldnt look away. Then Rodry did something Devin hadnt expected: he looked around and waved Devin over.

Devin should have felt as though he had no right to set foot on that floor. He should have felt as though he was about to stumble and fall with every step, yet he didnt. The sight of her seemed to pull Devin across the floor, dragging him across just with the need to be near her, so that he glided evenly over to them. He remembered to bow when he got there.

Theres no need for that, Devin, Rodry said. Devin, I would like you to meet my sister Lenore. Lenore, this is my friend Devin.

His friend? There were so many other things that he could have described Devin as. He could have mentioned the sword Devin was making, or the fact that he was from the House of Weapons. It seemed strange to be introduced just as that.

Its lovely to meet you, Devin, Lenore said, offering him her hand. Devin took it as delicately as he could, kissing her knuckles. Even that contact was electric.

And you, your highness, he said, remembering the correct term. For a moment, he found himself wishing he could ask her to dance along with the others, but he knew he had no right to do it.

Im told that I have you to thank for bringing my brother back to me, along with Fathers knights, she said. She smiled slightly. Although he wont tell me exactly what it was that he went out to fetch.

Devin saw Rodry shake his head pointedly.