Before the moment could stretch further, she lifted one hand and pointed toward a young man standing beside the royal carriage.
"That is my grandson," she said. "Do try not to start a political incident before lunch."
A few nervous smiles flickered and died.
Then a young man stepped forward.
Julian recognized him at once. The same pale face as the one from Kraven's memory. The same refined posture. The same smile that almost reached his eyes, but never fully did.
The Crown Prince of Hermes.
He stepped closer to his grandmother and bowed first toward the Duke, then toward Olivia.
"I greet the Duke," he said.
His voice was smooth, practiced, and pleasant in the way court-trained voices often were.
Then he turned slightly toward Olivia. "Lady Olivia looks more beautiful with every passing year."
The Duke returned the bow.
"It is good to see you, Your Highness."
Olivia smiled as well.
"I am glad you think so highly of me, Your Highness."
