“Even if you hadn’t won the whole tournament, the first round alone was enough to be proud of,” I commented.

Etan let out a low whistle. “I’ve had a few good runs in my time, but I’ve never grounded someone. It’s true,” he said, raising his arms and gesturing to nothing, “I am incredibly talented. But I think I owe some of my good luck to you today, Hollis.”

I tilted my head. “Thanks to you, my favors currently have a perfect winning streak.”

“Really? Then I think this should be yours.” Etan held out his prize.

“It’s beautiful, but I can’t take this. It’s your first win. You should have it.”

“Wouldn’t have won without you, though. So . . .” He held it out to me, his eyes insistent. With how well things had gone, the last thing I wanted to do was argue with Etan over a feather.

“You’re a stubborn idiot, but I accept,” I sighed. “Thank you.”

“Let’s have a toast,” Uncle Reid said. “To our champion, and to our good luck charm. To Etan and Hollis!”

“To Etan and Hollis,” everyone chorused. And I raised my cup quickly, hoping to hide whatever expression it was that dashed across my face.

“Hopefully our good luck carries over to our plans,” I said, diverting the topic. “I delivered my letter to the queen.”

Etan swallowed his drink hastily, looking at me wide-eyed. “She got it?”

I nodded. “I checked the ground around her seat, and it at least made it off the field with her. We spoke about the necessity for secrecy in Coroa, so I feel confident she understood the importance of the kerchief.”

“When did you ask her to meet?” Aunt Jovana asked.

“Tonight. In the Great Room during the celebration banquet.”

They all looked at me as if I were mad.

“Sometimes the best way to keep a secret is to put it out in the open.”

Etan shook his head, his expression saying he was once again impressed against his will.

“How can we help?” Uncle Reid asked.

“I’m hoping I won’t need much help. With everyone in good spirits from the joust and excited for the wedding, I’m imagining this will be a bit of a rowdy night and that no one will notice Valentina slipping off to talk to me.”

“Excellent,” Uncle Reid commented. “And the rest of us must be prepared to take in more information. Hollis can’t carry all of this.”

Scarlet nodded fervently, as did Etan. I didn’t think I was carrying all of anything. I was just grateful to be of use.

We finished our food and ambled lazily back toward the palace. Etan was walking tall, his hair still stuck to his forehead from the exertions of his day. He had a very satisfied grin slapped across his dirty face, happily holding his helmet beneath his arm.

“Please tell me you intend to bathe before we go to dinner,” I teased.

“Please tell me you do as well.”