"I never expected Your Majesty to visit me in person. This must be the first time we've had a chance to speak privately."
The Duke of Upper Burgundy spoke with great difficulty, each breath escaping his throat with a faint, wheezing sound. He was nothing like the imposing man Lina remembered from the royal court. Age and illness had reduced him to a frail figure, yet even as death approached, he retained the presence of a dying lion. Looking at him now, Lina could almost imagine the powerful minister he had once been, a man whose influence had commanded the respect of the entire court.
"If I hadn't come, I doubt I would have had another chance to speak with you face to face," Lina replied coolly.
Rather than take offense at her bluntness, the Duke let out a hoarse laugh.
"Yes, yes. Anyone can see that I'm dying."
"So, what are your conditions?"
