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I never did, I wanted to say, but I nodded and smiled. “The Aeglire knows how to prepare a Royal Wedding better than I do. I put my full trust in the planners of the Eternal Court.”
The servants refilled our cups and left the tray of pastries on the table. I took one more out of habit than anything else and nibbled on it absently.
“I see,” Queen Menthe said, her eyes narrowing slightly. “But what about your dreams, Princess? Surely you have some idea of what you want for your wedding day?”
I shook my head and took a sip of tea. “I’ve never really thought about it. I always assumed the Eternal Court would take care of everything.”
Queen Menthe frowned and glanced at her husband. Prince Aldaren sighed and rubbed his forehead.
Prince Maedras, who had been silent until now, spoke up. “Thimsal, a wedding is supposed to be a special day. It’s a celebration of love. Surely you must have some idea of what you want?”
I shook my head. “I’m sorry, Prince Maedras. I really don’t.”
Prince Maedras leaned backward, his chair creaking in protest. He was silent for a moment, his long fingers steepled in front of him. “What are your thoughts on the wedding?”
Was he trying to trap me? I took another sip of tea to give myself time to think.
“I believe it will be a momentous occasion,” I finally said. “And I am eager to celebrate the joining of our two noble Houses.”
There. That should appease everyone.
Maedras nodded slowly, his golden eyes never leaving my face. “That doesn’t mean there isn’t room for Midarian customs. It’s our wedding.”
And not his alone. I mentally added.
“Of course, my dear.” Queen Menthe smiled at me. “It would honor us to include some of your customs in the festivities.” Her face softened. “After all, this is a joyous occasion for both of our families. How many guests do you expect to attend from your side?”
“None,” I said, knowing fully well that my answer would shock them. “I celebrated it already. The Eternal Court can plan whatever they deem appropriate for the event.”
Queen Menthe’s face fell, and she looked at Prince Aldaren, who raised an eyebrow.
Prince Maedras’s knuckles whitened as he gripped his cup. “Your family will not come.”
“No, there’s no need for that. It’s too far for them.”
No one mentioned the portals that could take us anywhere in an instant.
Queen Menthe took a long sip of her tea. Her face was back to its usual serene expression. usual serene expression. “If that is what you wish, then we will certainly honor your request.”
“I only have one request for this wedding,” I said, looking at Prince Maedras who was gazing at me.
“And what is that?” he asked, his voice tight.
I wanted it to be over as quickly as possible, but that’s not what I said.
“This wedding should be a Manzimorian wedding.” And not an Elvish one only. “It would bring me great joy if we invited and included high-esteem guests from the Naga, Dryads, Halflings, and Midarians.”
Prince Maedras was silent for a moment, his face unreadable. Then he nodded slowly. “That can be arranged.”
Queen Menthe looked pleased, and Prince Aldaren nodded in approval.
“Thank you, Your Highness.” I smiled as I took another sip of my tea.
In their eyes, I read confusion and a bit of anger. Good. I wanted them to be off balance. It would make it easier to get through this farce of a wedding.
Queen Menthe opened her mouth to say something, but Prince Aldaren cut her off.
“What about the ceremony? Have you given any thought to that?”
