Cas casually glanced over at the warriors, then back to Em. “I think that everything insults them. They’re always mad about something.”
“And your parents made sure they’d be angry about this.”
He lifted an eyebrow. “You think so?”
“Yes.” Typical Lera strategy. They were always more concerned with making sure everyone knew how much better they were than with actually showing a little respect.
“I’ll go say hello,” she said. “Make them feel welcome.”
“I got the impression you were scared of them,” he said. “You were staring at Iria as if she was going to jump across the table with a sword and stab you.”
Em’s face twisted in a way that made Cas laugh. “I am not scared!”
“A little fear of the warriors is probably good sense.”
“I’m not scared,” she repeated firmly. “What’s she going to do, stab me in front of everyone?”
“It’s unlikely.”
“That wasn’t very comforting.”
His eyes were bright with amusement. “It was meant to be honest, not comforting. I’ve recently been stabbed at my own wedding, let’s not forget.”
“True.”
He glanced over at the Olso warriors. “Let’s ask them to come over here.”
“No, it would look better if I went to them. It’s a sign of respect.”
He paused for a moment. “All right. I’ll come with you.”
She couldn’t protest that, not without giving away the fact that she wanted to talk to them alone. She stood, and Cas did the same, leaning over to say something to his father. The king frowned, but didn’t protest.
The room quieted as they walked. The Olso warriors turned, then stood as they approached. Surprise crossed the men’s faces as Cas and Em walked around the table and sat down on the bench across from them. Iria still wore her smug expression, which Em decided to pretend she hadn’t noticed.
“How was the food?” Cas asked, gesturing to their empty plates.
“Very good, Your Highness, thank you,” Koldo said.
“They’ll be coming around with more, if you’re still hungry,” Cas said. “And dessert soon. I recommend the fig tarts. They’re delicious.”
Koldo perked up, his eyes scanning the room for the treats. Benito didn’t look at all impressed at the idea of dessert.
“I will be sure to get one,” Iria said. She fixed her gaze on Cas. “Congratulations on your marriage.”
“Thank you.”
“How wonderful that Lera and Vallos could finally be united.” Iria turned her smile from Cas to Em.
“Have you been?” Cas asked. “To Vallos?”
“I have,” Iria said. “A bit dreary, compared to here. Though not nearly as grim as Ruina.”
Em forced her expression to stay neutral. “I’ve never been to Ruina, but I’m sure you’re right.”
“Your Highness,” Iria said, glancing at Cas. “Do you mind if I dance with your wife?”
“If she would like,” he replied.
“I would love to,” Em said, lifting her skirts as she stood. She looped her arm through the girl’s and walked with her to the dance floor.
Iria put a light hand on her back and Em decided to let her lead. No need to antagonize her.
“Is it entirely necessary to have that look on your face?” Em asked through clenched teeth as they began to dance.
“What look?”
“Like you’ve figured something out and are delighted about it. You’re here to help me, remember?”
Iria chuckled. “I’m sorry. I’m just so amused. Emelina Flores as the princess of Lera. It’s ridiculous.” Her eyes slid to Cas, and Em glanced over as well. He was talking to the two other warriors, but he had one eye on them. “Though he seems thoroughly convinced.”
“Why wouldn’t he be? I told the warriors I could do it.”
“So you did. I bet against you. Lost a good bit of money, actually.”
“What a shame,” Em said drily. She looked at Benito and Koldo. “Do they both know about me?”
“Of course. They can be trusted.”
“I’ll decide that. You didn’t tell anyone else I’m here, did you?”
“No. Not even your own people. It’s strange to keep the Ruined in the dark about this plan, if you want to know my opinion.”
“I don’t. The less people know, the better.” The Ruined wouldn’t have faith in Em or her plan anyway. The looks on their faces would be that much better once they realized she’d succeeded.
“I heard you saved your prince from death on your wedding day. That was a stroke of luck, wasn’t it?”
“Yes, it was.” Em regarded Iria suspiciously. “Wasn’t it?”
“We had nothing to do with it. But we’re trying to find those hunters now, to see how organized the movement is. They may be helpful.”
“Do you have any news?”
“I saw Damian briefly before I left Olso. He’s helping the Ruined cross the border. We’ve succeeded in getting several through, safe and sound. They were on their way to see King Lucio when I left.”
“Why do they need to see the king?” Em asked.