I switch tactics, nodding my head and raising my glass towards him in mock surrender. “You’ve caught me, Mazus. Well done. That doesn’t mean I’m going to tell you anything more.” I give him a coy look before taking a long sip from the wine, my mind racing to put together what his angle is.

“Of course not, Nemesia. As a hobby researcher myself, I understand the importance of keeping one’s scholarly interests close to the chest.”

Hobby researcher? More like mad aethermancer.

“I’d love to see your famed experiment room, Your Majesty.”

He smiles, but it doesn’t reach his eyes. “Of course. I’ll arrange it before you leave Velmara.” I notice he gives no firm timeline, and since we both know I could be in Velmara indefinitely, it’s no promise at all. “May I make a minor suggestion in your approach? I am of course very familiar with the archives and many of the topics you may be interested in.” I only nod. “Assuming that whatever you’re looking for has to do with the thayar,” he continues. “If that’s true, then broaden your scope. Many of my best scholars argue the thayar flower has connections to the very fabric of our world. Research the history of the leylines and the aether itself. That may get you closer to what you seek.” His eyes sparkle, and my stomach drops. It’s an astute and poignant suggestion, but it’s too on the nose. Not only has he guessed what I’m interested in, but he’s determined the right research strategy before I have.

I don’t let those concerns show on my face, though. “Thank you for the suggestion. I’ll take that into consideration in the coming days.”

The rest of the meal passes uneventfully. He asks about Laurel but politely redirects when I don’t give him any information. At one point he even complains about his son Prince Hawthorne, as if we’re old friends and he’s sharing his concerns for the future of his only child. It’s off putting, this version of Mazus, though it helps me better understand why so many believe him to be the altruistic Golden King.

As I stand to leave, he adds, “I have a few books that may be useful for your studies in my own private collection. When I have a moment, I’ll look through them and send them your way. In the meantime, if there’s anything else I can help you with, please send word. You’re most welcome here in Velmara.”