Once the Emperor was seated, the servants began bringing platters of food. They silently served each course to the guests.
During the feast, Emperor Zinj appraised Queen Mathilde. He was not subtle, nor did he even attempt to hide it. It would never have occurred to him to do so anyway.
He found her quite pleasing in his eyes. Elegant and refined, she posed the charm, polish, and poise of royalty even though she was only queen of a tiny backwater kingdom. It was easy to see from whom Rowena inherited her mannerisms for she possessed the same.
She was a little older than his tastes usually ran, but she looked quite youthful for her age. She was curvaceous yet firm with creamy skin that practically glowed with health.
Her large emerald eyes were enchanting. One felt that if they stared at them long enough, they would be hypnotized into revealing any hidden secrets. Her long brown eyelashes curled up delicately and she batted them with practiced ease and grace.
