True to her word, Natasha brought Rhyland to meet with her father immediately after the pair had worked out a "compromise."
Nikolai was an austere gentleman who carried with him an air of authority befitting that of old nobility. He had known Rhyland since the latter was a wee lad and held some affection for him. However Nikolai was also someone who held his position in the Council in high regard. And as such did not take any actions that would stir up suspicion. Nikokai's loyalty did not lie particularly with Rhal Darling but with the throne. Which was why when his daughter had suddenly requested an audience accompanied by the outcast Rhyland, the man was understandably perturbed. He had not seen Rhyland for over a decade since the engagement with Natasha had fallen by the wayside. Nikolai had thought that their relationship had ended then and there.
