“First, Dauneth, there must be trust and respect.”

Dauneth’s lips tightened, and Tanalasta saw that she had gotten off to a bad start.

“Oh no, Dauneth! I have the utmost trust and respect for you. Everybody does.” Tanalasta paused, choosing her next words carefully. “What I mean to say is… well, it must be mutual.”

Dauneth frowned. “I do trust you, Prin-er, Tanalasta. Of course I respect you.”

“If that were true, you would not be lying to me now.”

“Milady! I would never lie-“

“Truly?” Tanalasta allowed her voice to grow sharp. “You still respect my judgment after the Abraxus Affair? You would trust the kingdom to the care of someone so easily manipulated?”

Dauneth started to reply automatically, then his eyes lit with sudden comprehension. “I see your point.”

Tanalasta felt a hollow ache in her stomach, which she quickly recognized as the pang of wounded pride-and evidence that Dauneth was listening well. She forced a smile, but could not quite bring herself to take Dauneth’s arm.

“Now you’re being honest. Thank you.”

“I wish I could say it was my pleasure, but it really isn’t. This is truly what you want from me?”

“It’s a start.”

“A start.” Dauneth sounded somewhat dazed. He plucked at the fabric of her woolen traveling frock. “If I am being honest, would you also like me to tell you that gray really isn’t your color?”

Tanalasta swatted his hand away. “I said honest, not brash!” she chuckled. “After all, I am still a princess, and I expect to be courted.”