After the eventful breakfast, the king retreated to his private study, leaving orders not to be disturbed except of course, it was Grace or Aedric.
It wasn't until late that night that the door creaked open and the only man that was permitted inside without summons, entered.
"Your Majesty," Lance Dashford murmured with a bow, though between them, the formality was more of a ritual than necessity.
Lester gestured for him to rise. "Cousin. Sit."
Lance obeyed, settling across from him. His sharp eyes flicked once to the untouched goblet of wine by the king's elbow, then back to his cousin's expression. "I heard breakfast was… illuminating today?"
Lester leaned back in his chair as he interlaced and raised his fingers thoughtfully. His face betrayed nothing, but his voice was heavy with meaning. "Autelia plays her part well… too well I must say. She demanded I make a formal introduction to Grace this morning."
Lance's brows arched. "Bold of her. Did you oblige?"
