The patrician ladies shared anxious and puzzled glances.
His highness was not to return until midnight, which was after the coronation of knights, like they'd been told.
"What business does Lady Odette and Lady Cecilia have in my castle?"
He didn't sound especially curious of their designs and seemed to already know it so well.
The patrician women had a stiff smile. "We only paid visit according to the laws of the state, your highness." Lady Odette lifted her head slightly. She sounded composed and heartfelt. "His Highness's marriage alliance is of crucial importance to the future of Eragon."
A smirk lifted a corner of Derek's lips. "If it's of my concern, why do you not seek me? Are the noblewomen not said to be well-learned?"
He inched closer. "I do not mind idle talks."
Lady Odette hid her hand tremors beneath her skirt and grinned halfheartedly. "Your Highness, it…it…it…"
