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The king stepped beside Relian. “Dear Ladies. I see my son is lax in introducing his king and father.”
Relian sent him an annoyed glance. His father knew full well he hadn’t had the time to introduce anyone but himself. Through tacit agreement, they’d decided Relian would speak to the women first. Cal would surely appreciate a familiar face.
His father ignored him and, instead, turned his most charming smile on the two young mortals. Relian didn’t offer an introduction. After all, they now knew who his father was. But Talion still gave him a pointed stare.
Cal and Maggie looked on, their posture tense.
He strived not to roll his eyes at his father. “My ladies, this is my esteemed father and king.” The sarcasm bled through his tone. No one, not even Talion, paid it any attention, though.
Both women bowed their heads mechanically, looking perplexed and awkward while chorusing, “Your Majesty.”
The king gave them a pleased smile. “I am King Talion. Welcome to Eriannon, the capital of Eria. I hope you will enjoy our hospitality to its fullest. I realize you’ve both experienced much distress by coming here or, maybe I should say, by being brought here.”
Both women gave a nod at this but otherwise remained silent. Of course, a human would be hesitant after finding herself in the midst of a celebration where everyone but she and her friend were elves. He would allow Cal and her friend their trepidation.
Part of him wanted a private moment with Cal, but the proper protocol didn’t permit this at the time. Besides, he wasn’t sure if he trusted himself—or his hands—to be alone with her. What was it about her, a mere human, that sent his blood humming through his veins?
Relian gestured to a side path that meandered through part of the town as it headed back toward the palace. “Please, would you like to sit and talk with us in a more secluded setting? As you can see, we are in the midst of a celebration.” He wisely didn’t tell them the cause of the festivities.
Cal and Maggie traded a glance. His breath stilled. Would they show enough trust? When they both answered, “Yes,” he released the pent-up pressure in his lungs.
His father motioned to him and Kenhel. “Splendid idea. Relian, escort Lady Calantha. Kenhel, you’ll accompany Lady Maggie. We’ll retreat to the private gardens. The celebration can go on without us. Excuse me while I make a few preparations.”
The avid throng of onlookers parted to let his father pass unhampered. Talion swept ahead to pull aside one of his advisors, while Relian stopped a servant to request refreshments for the women. Something fortifying like alcohol might be needed.
He just wasn’t sure who’d require it the most—him or the women.
