Rose Knight
It was clear that Sibylla's trust had been well-won, and perhaps hard-won.Above all, she didn't demand the same of the Ukatian, only encouraging her to keep an open mind toward Aurelian’s qualities that made him a suitable monarch.
All of it could've been a carefully curated performance to appeal to Cora's particular brand of wariness. Acknowledging the flaws of a regent could go a long way when it came to planting the seeds of trust.
Cora hummed through a thoughtful sip of tea. A slow breeze rolled over them, rustling Sibylla's dangling earrings in a gentle jangle. Even the Force seemed to whisper in agreement.
Such a well-spoken young woman, she thought to herself. Lady Abrantes could sell ice to a Valkyri.
Cora placed the teacup down in its saucer and fixed Sibylla with her full attention. Rather than an intense stare, she wore a knowing gaze.
"You - and him - see the crown for what it truly is: a beacon surrounded by a nest of thorns. A burden of responsibility, and a bright red target."
Cora leaned back in her seat and clicked her tongue. "I have suffered kings before. The worst of whom take the throne with good intent, but fall prey to greed and cruelty." A pause, during which her expression warmed with a tinge of amusement. "Then again, I suppose you'll knock his head if it begins to fall from his shoulders. Your faith in King Veruna seems to have been built brick by brick. Is it more than faith, I wonder…?"
When Cora next lifted the cup to her lips, a little smile was pressed to the gilded rim.
She could've been wrong, of course. But it would be more interesting if she wasn't.
"Ah," she sighed, savoring both the floral notes of the tea and the conversation. "This was a good idea. Perhaps we shall invite His Majesty next time.”
Sibylla Abrantes
