Page 47 of Glow of the Everflame

“Remis,” I said, giving him a polite nod in greeting.

“What a pleasant surprise. My son claimed you were too busy to meet with me today.”

So Luther was trying to keep me from his father.

Interesting.

I kept my reaction casually indifferent. “Is there something you need to discuss?”

“I wanted to formally welcome you to House Corbois.” He gave a stiff bow. “Blessed Mother Lumnos has honored us with many generations of service to the realm. We all look forward to continuing this great tradition at your side.”

Remis was a consummate diplomat. His features radiated cordiality, and the rich smoothness of his voice could put anyone at ease. His posture was approachable, yet still deferential. By all appearances, he looked thrilled to have me around.

It was only the flicker of tension in his jaw—a trait he shared with his son—that exposed what I knew to be the truth.

“I’m sure you do,” I said with a sweet smile.

Low on his cheek, a muscle twitched.

“I take it my son informed you that the King’s funeral will take place in two days’ time.”

“He has. Aemonn was kind enough to tell me of the Ascension Ball, as well.”

His smile was warm caramel, thick and honeyed. Nothing like the brightness of his son’s, rare as it might be. “I’m pleased to hear they have heeded my orders to make themselves useful to you.”

“So many of my new cousins have been eager to offer their help. I wasn’t aware I had you to thank for that.”

Another twitch.

“As your Regent, I only wanted to—”

“Thelate King’sRegent,” I corrected. “I’ve not yet chosen mine.”

His mask faltered at last. His lips remained curved, his eyes crinkled, but the warmth in his features dissipated as if chilled by a winter gust.

“If yougetto reign, Your Majesty. There are many obstacles to overcome to ensure such a happy day comes to pass.”

I raised an eyebrow. “So many? I hear a Challenge to a Corbois Crown is almost unheard of. I hope you’re not suggesting your House can’t provide the protection our deal promised.”

Something wild and dangerous flashed briefly in Remis’s eyes—another trait I had seen too frequently in his son.

“It isn’t the Corbois name alone that wields such influence. It’s the depth of our relationships across all nine realms. The many enemies one stands to make, if one dares to cross us.”

He delivered the threat with the same offhanded lightness as he might discuss the weather.

A true diplomat, indeed.

“And, of course,” he rushed on, “we have wisdom acquired through our many years of service. While our youngest members may be helpful, the elder Corbois have much sage counsel to offer, should you be open to it.”

The urge to continue provoking him was strong. It was hard not to look at him and think of all the injustices done to the mortals under his watch as Regent.

But timing was everything. While I wanted to keep Remis and his kin unsure of their position so they focused more on winning me over than digging into my mortal life, I didn’t want to go far enough to make an enemy of them.

Yet.

I gave him my most grateful smile. “Only a fool would turn down such a valuable gift. I always welcome your guidance, Regent.”

The tension dropped in his shoulders, his expression regaining its charm. “I’m pleased to hear that. Shall we meet tomorrow to discuss strategy for the House Receptions?”

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