Scarlet and I marched outside, and I stayed behind her, knowing she was my guide today. On the west side of the castle, a large tournament ground stood. It was bigger than the one at Keresken and covered in Isolten blue.

I could see the illustrious stand set up for the king, its tapestries billowing in the breeze. Special guests were already sitting in the box, with many others cramming into the areas nearby. I spotted Valentina there, her one lady sitting directly behind her. Uncle Reid was in place, too, diagonal from the king’s box, holding on to a perfect position for us to slip a note if the moment arose.

“Lady Scarlet?”

She jumped a little before turning to the voice.

“I’m sorry!” the rider said from his horse, lifting his visor to show embarrassment painting his freckled face. “I didn’t mean to startle you.”

“Julien?” Scarlet guessed tentatively.

“Yes. I’ve been wanting to say hello to you, but I haven’t been able to catch you on your own. You seemed to be in the heart of a dozen conversations last night, and I didn’t want to intrude.”

His eyes were bashful, and I could see his posture belonged to someone desperate to get a moment right, but fearful they were getting it wrong.

“That’s very thoughtful of you, Julien. It was a bit overwhelming. I’m hoping to simply sit back and enjoy the spectacle today.”

“Of course,” he said, flustered. “I don’t want to keep you. I just wanted to extend my condolences about your father and brothers. And to tell you I’m glad you’re back in Isolte. I suppose you’re not up for dancing just yet, but the court has looked dull without you.”

His freckles disappeared under a blush.

“I believe that,” I commented, diverting attention. “Even the ladies in Coroa were envious of what a keen dancer Scarlet is.”

Julien gave a quick nod in his helmet. “High praise, indeed. I got to go to Coroa last year for the king’s meeting. It was one of the most entertaining trips of my life.”

I returned his smile. “I’m glad.”

Seeming unsure of what else to say, he turned his attentions back to Scarlet. “If your family needs anything, please let me know. It sounds like you all came back in a rush, so if you . . . that is, if there’s something you didn’t bring or . . .”

“Thank you, Julien,” she said, saving him from his bumbling.

“And . . . I hate to be a bother, but could you do something for me?”

“I’ll try,” Scarlet answered hesitantly.

“I’ve already asked two girls for their favors and was denied. I didn’t think you had anyone special at court . . .”

“Oh! No, I don’t mind at all.” Scarlet pulled off her handkerchief and placed it in Julien’s palm. “Here.”

I didn’t miss that his hand wrapped around hers, holding it just a moment longer than necessary. And while I knew Scarlet was in no place to be courted, she didn’t jerk away.