Mountains of Books, Seas of Scrolls: The Tender Dragon Maiden Finally Reunites with Her Master

The first meeting at Roundtable Hold ended in an atmosphere that was outwardly warm but rife with undercurrents beneath the surface.

Godfrey hoisted the Beast Regent onto his back. The beast had finally woken up but remained utterly listless.

The lion lay across the king's broad shoulders and gave a feeble yawn, his bestial eyes devoid of any will to live.

Looking apologetic, Godfrey patted Horace's shoulder, his voice a little lower than usual. "Asei, sister-in-law, I'd planned to throw you a lively wedding here in Leyndell, but with things as they are, I'm afraid we'll have to keep it simple. The business with the giants can't wait."

His brows drew together, and he clearly felt some regret over it himself.

Horace and Rellana exchanged a glance, each seeing understanding in the other's eyes.

Rellana spoke first, her voice clear and firm. "Don't let it trouble you. Affairs of state come first. A wedding is only a formality; Horace and I have already pledged our hearts to each other. We wish you a successful campaign and a triumphant return, big brother."

Horace nodded in agreement. "That's right, big brother. Once you've beaten the giants, we can celebrate properly. Two happy occasions at once-wouldn't that be even better? The war comes first right now."

Seeing how understanding his younger brother and sister-in-law were, Godfrey's apology gave way to gratification, and he nodded emphatically. "Good! Just what I'd expect from my brother and sister-in-law! Once I've flattened those big oafs in the Mountaintops of the Giants, we'll throw an even grander one!"

Horace and Rellana answered in unison, "No, let's not."

Godfrey scratched his head, at a loss.

Horace immediately covered for them. "Ahem, that would be far too extravagant and wasteful. We should be frugal. One wedding is enough." Rellana nodded