"You appear to be trembling, Your Highness. Is the cold getting to you? Mornings in the Capital are growing colder with each passing day, signaling the imminent arrival of winter."
Tillian shifted abruptly in the coach seat, edging closer to Aideen, who was indeed quivering like a leaf in the wind. The princess recoiled at this unexpected movement, then released a long, heavy exhale and shook her head.
"No, Your Grace, it's not the cold that is troubling me. I am terrified beyond belief! Aren't you nervous at all? Soon, you will face another man in the jousting arena, gripping a sword in your hands! I can't help but tremble with fear... What if you sustain severe injuries?"
The Duke responded with a loud, almost joyous chuckle.
"Ha! At least you are not entertaining thoughts of my demise today, which means you still have some faith in me, Your Highness. I'm flattered!"
