Yurien didn’t stop staring even when Uther stepped from his throne, joining the festivities as he plucked a goblet of wine off a tray.

Arthur steeled himself against the unfortunate task of meeting Princess Guinevere’s parents. Drinks were passed around, and music played, and the atmosphere was lively enough, yet it felt more like a chess game than a party.

A hand grasped him on the arm, and he turned, finding himself face to face with the King of Lothia himself.

“I’ve been curious to meet the boy who pulled the sword from the stone,” said Yurien.

Arthur should be careful, he knew. Especially given the hungry way Yurien was studying him.

His earlier remark had been a mistake. But perhaps he could play it off. It was better if the man thought him a silly, empty-minded royal. So he put on his best grin and prepared to act the part.

“It’s a favorite tale of my bards,” Yurien went on. “But musicians do exaggerate.”

“I confess, I rarely pay attention to the lyrics,” Arthur said. “Especially when there are lovely maidens dancing.”

“The sword,” Yurien went on. “I’m surprised you’re not wearing it.”

“It didn’t match my outfit,” Arthur said with a disarming smile.

Lord Agravaine joined them. “Pardon the intrusion, Your Majesty,” he said. “Do the men crewing your ship have adequate supplies to remain docked for the next few days?”

“They have their rations,” said Yurien.

Arthur immediately guessed at Lord Agravaine’s aim. “But that won’t do at all,” he protested, feigning ignorance. “This is a celebration! All of our kingdom’s guests should have cake!”

He nearly cringed at how silly he sounded. Yet he kept up the charade, turning to his father’s advisor in mock distress at their poor hospitality.

“My lord,” he went on. “You will see to it that the men eat their fill. And perhaps a case of wine?”

“Of course, Your Highness,” Lord Agravaine said smoothly.

Arthur blinked at Yurien with studied innocence. “Is it just a carrack?”

“A galleass.”

That explained why he had put in at the larger port. And if Lord Agravaine was perturbed to hear that a three-mast great ship flying a Lothian flag was docked in London, he hid it well.

“Then we shall need refreshments for fifty,” Arthur said with his most princely smile, as though he also saw no reason for concern. “If you’ll excuse me.”

He backed away from King Yurien, still faking good cheer. Perhaps his father’s plan to get a measure of the man wasn’t without merit.

CHAPTER 31

Emry stared out her bedroom window at the chaos below. The practice yard had been transformed into a sword-fighting ring, with banners flying and stands lined with cushions for the noble spectators. The stands were packed, though the contest hadn’t yet begun.