<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 150%; line-height: 116%;">Amaltheia</span></div><br/><br/>Amaltheia knew how much the king disliked interfering with his brothers. They needed the information, though, if only so they knew how to keep their borders. “Remember, this is only so we’re able to keep abreast of what’s happening,” she said gently. “Those men aren’t being sent to get involved or cause any trouble.” She hoped the reminder would ease the conflicting emotions she knew he would be feeling at having to do so. Making certain her things were tucked away, she stood and smoothed her dress. “I’ll send for the men immediately.” The sooner this was done, the sooner they would have the information they needed. Still, she was worried about her friend, and could see how this weighed on him.<br/><br/>“Trystan…” She moved around the table to his side and laid her hand on his arm for a moment. “We<span style="font-style: italic">will</span>figure this out.” Her voice was quiet as she looked up to see his expression. “Perhaps all we’ll need to do is prepare for more trade and patrol the border a bit more. This could all come to nothing, after all. Your brothers could decide to put their people ahead of their own wishes, and grow into excellent kings in their own right. Try not to be discouraged yet.” She let her hand fall and gave him a little smile. “Perhaps we’ll all be eaten by a dragon tomorrow. The future’s never set, Trystan.”