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And how they could use my political agenda to better themselves.
“What agenda?” I asked instead.
“As the future crown princess, people are curious about your views on matters. Most of the people here know each other intimately. You are a complete unknown, which can be both good and bad.”
A stranger in a strange land. That was certainly how I felt.
“But don’t worry,” Calida said, misinterpreting my silence. “I’m sure you’ll make friends here soon enough. Just be yourself and people will take to you.”
All ears were on us as we talked. I felt the weight of their stares, and that prompted me to change the subject. My views were my own. The mystery was a good thing.
“So, what do you like to do for fun?” I steered the conversation away from dangerous waters. “Surely not only work?”
Calida was happy to oblige, and soon we were deep in discussion about our favorite books and music. It surprised me to find that we had a lot in common. It was refreshing to find someone who shared my interests.
The doors opened, and two cooks entered, pushing a large cart. Behind them, a man followed them, with his hands behind his back.
“It’s surprising to see lord Caes here.” Her voice was barely above a whisper. “He’s usually busy.”
And now he was coming our way. The last thing I wanted was to be embarrassed in front of the entire Eternal Court. But it seemed like that was exactly what was about to happen.
Lord Caes approached us with a purposeful stride. His expression was unreadable.
“So those rumors were true,” Calida said, her voice laced with disbelief.
Gossip was the lifeblood of Manzimor. Not only Midar, it seemed.
She turned to me, and I just smiled.
He stopped before us. My heart was pounding in my chest.
“Ladies,” he said, his voice cold. “I hope you are enjoying yourselves. I hope you don’t mind if I interrupt you for a moment.”
He didn’t wait for a response before he turned his attention to me. “My most sincere apology for our lack of preparation. I hope you can forgive us, Your Highness.”
“Of course.” Goosebumps appeared on my skin as he stared at me. “It’s my pleasure to assist the Aeglire.”
“I spoke with lord Maeven’s cooks and immediately addressed the issues we had with our foreign dignitaries. A few dishes were prepared for you by me. I hope you will enjoy them.” He gestured to the cooks, who unloaded the cart. “Please, help yourself,” he said, his voice warmer now. “I’ll leave you to it.”
With that, he turned and walked away, leaving me confused.
What was that all about?
Lord Caes cared about his image, but I wasn’t sure if that was the only reason he had come over. There was something else there, something I couldn’t quite put my finger on. A political maneuver, perhaps? Or a political embarrassment he wanted to avoid?
He might have been simply trying to curry favor with me, but I didn’t think that was the case. He seemed sincere in his words, and I didn’t get the sense that he was trying to manipulate me.
The colorful spread included fresh fruits, pickled vegetables, a variety of meats and fish dishes with rice, and no bread. It was hearty, and I was famished.
I didn’t know where to start, but Calida quickly filled my plate. She added a bit of everything, and I followed her lead.
“Try the venison,” she said as she speared a piece of meat with her fork. “It’s lord Caes’ favorite.”
I did as she suggested. The idea of eating venison as breakfast meat was strange to me. I chewed slowly, savoring the flavor. Herby, sour, and sweet all at the same time. Different from the spices I was used to, but not unpleasant.
Calida watched me chew. “What do you think?”
“It’s good,” I said after I had swallowed. “I’m not sure I’ve ever had anything like it before.”
