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Marin blinked at him, momentarily at a loss for words. “Have you never tried anything new before, Lord Ralph? Can you not contemplate expanding your world a little?”

Ralph poked at the slices of raw fish with his fork. “Do you mean to tell me you actually eat this? And that this is the sort of hospitality Eleria offers to guests of status?” He rolled his eyes.

Marin looked him squarely in the eye and ate another bite. She smiled sweetly at him, though there was the very slightest gleam of hidden animosity in her eyes. “I did not realize Boravia was so easily daunted by new experiences. Is it not admirable to face new things, even trials, with courage and grace? Still, I would never want to force anything detestable on an honored guest. Do not fear! There is still the dessert course to look forward to, and if you are hungry, one of the staff will bring you something more palatable.”

Lord Ralph’s nostrils flared in anger, but he said only, “I am satisfied with the earlier courses and will wait for dessert.”

The Mer prince signed,I did not realize you were a man of such narrow tastes.He scraped the sauce from each bite of fish and separated the fish from the white grains. Then he popped the fish slices in his mouth one by one. His dull human teeth bit into the tender slices easily, and the faint hints of sauce were not strong enough to make his eyes water, but merely gave a human touch to this familiar delight.

That was delicious!He eyed Ralph’s plate and glanced at the Boravian.If you’re too stupid to appreciate yours, may I eat it?

“Ugh!” Ralph shoved the plate away. “I don’t even want to look at it.”

Kaerius snorted softly and reached over to pull the plate closer to himself.Thank you.

Ralph scowled at him, and Kaerius gestured at the plate.You don’t want it, do you? I may not know your human courtesies, but I hardly intended for you to go hungry.

The Boravian shuddered and turned away, looking fixedly at the flowers in front of him.

The Mer prince offered the plate to Marin.

“Oh, no, thank you, Prince Kai. I did not realize you liked it so much. I will be sure to have it served again, though of course there will be something else for you, Lord Ralph.” Her smile wassweet, but Kaerius thought he saw a little glint of laughter in her eyes.

Dessert was something sweet and creamy with a crunchy crust on top, and though it was certainly edible to Kaerius, he felt it far too complicated and overwhelming after the smooth, fresh, raw fish. He put his little spoon aside after one bite.

“Is it not to your liking, Prince Kai?” asked Marin.

Kaerius smiled, hoping she could see the sincerity in his eyes.I am satisfied in your presence. A refreshing meal of fish was an unexpected additional pleasure. Annoying Ralph is almost too much enjoyment for one meal! Thank you for your hospitality and kindness.He made the sign for gratitude clear and emphatic.

“What are you saying?” growled Ralph, glaring at him.

That you are an obnoxious coward who doesn’t deserve to sit down with the princess.Kaerius grinned toothily at him.She’ll realize it soon, too.

Ralph snorted and muttered, “Idiot.”

The Mer prince’s smile only widened, letting the Boravian lord see that he was not in the least intimidated.

Brighton gave his head the tiniest shake, and Kaerius took it as advice that he ought not provoke the Boravian further.

The prince sighed in frustration.Coward. But he did not want to cause Marin trouble, so he contented himself with a scornful glance at Ralph and a smile of appreciation for the servant who reached around him to take his plate. He had not been in the habit of showing gratitude to those of lower station among his own people, but it felt especially satisfying to express this courtesy to Marin’s staff in front of Ralph. Ralph alone deserved Kaerius’s scorn.

Marin glanced at him and then at Ralph, surreptitiously worrying her lower lip. “I think I’d like a quiet afternoon,” she said at last. “Lord Ralph, I believe I will not see you at dinner;I must meet with my advisors. Your delegation will be hosted in the green dining hall at seven o’clock. I will be sure to advise the kitchen of your preferences.” She smiled innocently. “Tomorrow Lord Galbraith and his delegation arrive. We will dine together then. Good afternoon.”

She stood, and Lord Ralph and Kaerius rose immediately.

Marin swept out of the room and was escorted away by Brighton and several soldiers.

Good afternoon, idiot.The Mer prince flashed a quick, sharp smile at Ralph.

Several other soldiersmet Lord Ralph and Kaerius in the corridor.

“I’m to escort you back to your suite,” said one of them to Ralph.

The Boravian nodded and set off without further acknowledging Kaerius, and the Mer prince looked at the young soldier who had remained with him.

“Captain Brighton asked me to ask you if you’d like to visit the stables,” the young man said.

Kaerius nodded.Thank you. What are stables? And what is your name?