The next day arrived in a quiet hush.
It was time for his meeting with the Duke's daughter.
Michael called Ace and Lia over.
"Go to the outer city ride center," he instructed with an unhurried tone. "Find something respectable enough. And make sure it's ready by the time I'm dressed."
The two young men bowed in quick, earnest agreement and hurried out.
Michael returned to his room and lingered for a moment in front of the mirror. He exhaled, shoulders settling.
Aside from the tea with Arianne, there was another reason he'd planned this visit. He intended to see the Duke himself. A few days ago, when he had been granted his territory, the Duke had told him to inform him when he was ready to travel there in earnest.
With his rank advancement looming, Michael saw no more reason to wait.
The further from the capital he was, the more freedom he'd have to focus on what truly mattered.
