Crown princess Sigrid, regal in green and gold, met her husband's eyes. She did not speak but her lips curled into a curious smile. How did he intend to respond?
Roland tapped Sigrid's hand and inclined his head to the right a little. "You take this one."
"Coward." She whispered to him, laughed and then looked at the Nithercott sisters. Her next words were meant for everyone in the hall, not just them. "Eldoria is a very blessed empire. Every female divine messenger seems to be very interested in our crown prince. Isn't this wonderful?"
Duke Thorin clapped his hands. Because of him, others clapped and applauded vigorously like this was the best news they had heard all week.
Sigrid raised her hand and the applause died down.
"While it is flattering, we will not be taking you up on your kind offer. There is no room for a third party in this marriage. Even if the god of the sky came down and decreed it, I would still reject it."
There were some murmurs on the hall.
