"Lady Tanith, welcome. You've come a long way." Tarnished stepped forward with a courteous smile.
Tanith returned his greeting with an elegant curtsy, her poise impeccable. "Forgive me for keeping the master of Stormveil waiting. I have heard that Lord Tarnished is a gifted young hero, accomplished in both letters and arms, handsome and distinguished, with strength enough to uproot mountains. Seeing you today, I know those rumors were true." She raised her eyes to him with such sincerity that every word seemed heartfelt.
The string of compliments left Tarnished grinning almost from ear to ear. He laughed. "You flatter me. A woman commanding Volcano Manor as you do, Lady Tanith-that is true proof that women are every bit the equal of men."
The two began trading extravagant compliments, their words polished and the atmosphere warm, as though their admiration and pleasantries would never end.
Morgott listened impatiently, his heavy brows knitted. The conversation struck him as unbearably false and pompous. He interrupted, his deep voice grinding like stone. "Enough pointless courtesies. Speak plainly. Has Volcano Manor come to join the alliance as well?"
Tanith turned her gaze toward Morgott. At the sight of his deformed body and twisted horns, she let precisely the right measure of surprise enter her eyes. Then she lightly covered her red lips with a black silk-gloved hand, her voice carrying just the right blend of respect and recognition. "Could you be... the Grace-Given King, who single-handedly repelled the demigods' allied armies and protected the countless people of Leyndell?"
"Indeed." Morgott had no fondness for this woman, and his tone remained blunt. "I am an Omen, entrusted with defending Leyndell in its hour of peril. If you object, you are welcome to bring your forces against me. I shall crush every last scoundrel!"
He had