“And I you. You have no idea how good it feels to be here at last. I have wanted to come many times, but-”
Bria caught up her hands and pulled her away, saying, “Come! There is much to talk about. Leave your things for now; I will have them brought up to your rooms.” She turned to address the others in Esme’s traveling party. “Please, you are our welcome guests. Rest; take your ease from your long journey. If you like, you may dine with us in the banquet hall this evening. Or if you would prefer, food will be sent to your rooms.”
Wilkins bowed low. “Your Highness, my Lady has told us so much about you and about this place, we are all eager to see it. We will join you as soon as we have washed the dust of the road from ourselves. I, for one, wish to meet the Dragon King. His name is renowned in the land.” The others nodded their agreement.
“I am sure my husband will welcome the news you bring. I will send the chamberlain directly to lead you to your rooms.”
Esme said, “Chloe, you may remain with me.” A slim brown-haired young woman dressed in riding clothes like Esme’s stepped shyly forward. She curtsied to the Queen, then held out two bundles to her mistress.
“Ah, yes. I almost forgot!” said Esme, taking the packages. “I have brought something for my little friends.”
The Princesses squealed in delight. “Presents!” they cried. Esme handed them each a bundle tied in bright silk. “Oh, thank you! Thank you!” Both girls kissed her and then ran off to open their gifts.
“They are treasures, Bria. Treasures.”
“That they are. But come, you must be exhausted. Your rooms are ready and waiting for you.” She led Esme away and smiled at Chloe who fell silently in behind them. “Both of you can rest a little before dinner.”
The Queen led them from the ward yard into the corridor of the inner curtain and into the castle itself. Along the way they talked about the journey and all that the travelers had seen. When finally they reached the Queen’s apartments, Bria announced, “You will be staying here, Esme. I want you close. Rest now and refresh yourselves. Water has been prepared