Chương 10: Chapter 10

An hour later, Shanna was dressed in dark pink and forest green, her jewelry all delicate silver, emerald, and pink diamonds. The lawn fell silent as she was announced, then polite applause rolled through the crowd. Her suitors arrayed themselves in one long line, from the largest and most powerful kingdoms down to the smallest and weakest. But so far as Shanna was concerned, that meant the best was saved for last.

Nevertheless, as she greeted each person, she lingered over those she had told her stepfather she was considering. "Your Highness," she said as Princess Cerrithi bowed over her hand. "How are you this afternoon?"

"Splendid, Highness." Cerrithi held on to her hand a moment too long, smiling prettily, tilting her head just a bit to show off the long line of her throat. "I know many have said, but it's an honor to be here."

"The honor is mine, to have such fine suitors grace me with their presence. I hope you will dance with me later."