However unpleasant he might be, Celes was cheered by what she could learn from such a short introduction.  While he might be ruthless and had all the power of the throne, he might rely too heavily on his supporters, and gave more thought to appearance than function.  It only made it easier to appease and play him.  Jace, on the other hand, would need to be turned or removed to cripple James' power.<br/><br/>"Thank you, Your Grace, you are too kind.  It being my first time to court, I was to abashed to approach His Highness directly and interrupt his pleasure," she took the proffered hand and examined the ring, her mother's ring, as quickly as she could before giving it a kiss with her full lips.  "It is also true, I was most recently in Germania and thought only to acquaint myself with the Lord von Gunnerkrig, having been the recipient of his country's hospitality."  She stayed low for a bit longer than necessary, allowing James the opportunity to ogle her before standing erect.  She wondered if she needed to tolerate his presence now that his ego had been soothed.  Getting chummy with the king, if even possible, might offer advantages, but getting too close would probably muddle her affairs overmuch.