The sound of boots echoed in the stone corridor before two guards opened the doors of the hall.
Roderic Tanlund entered without haste. He wore the dark armour of the royal guard, a black cloak fastened at the shoulder, and his hand rested near the hilt of his sword. His grey gaze swept across the room before settling on the princess.
He gave a brief bow, correct in form and short on enthusiasm.
"—Your Highness."
His voice was deep and calm. There was no curiosity in his expression, nor the slightest attempt to be agreeable.
"—By order of His Majesty, I have been appointed to watch over your safety until the celebration of your marriage."
He straightened and observed her for a moment.
"—I have been informed that you wish to retain a certain freedom of movement during your stay. I will do everything in my power to ensure that, provided it does not interfere with my duties."
A pause.
"—I trust we can avoid misunderstandings. I have no interest in making your life unpleasant, princess. But neither will I allow your aversion to this mission to prevent me from carrying it out."
His gaze flicked briefly toward the doors through which he had just entered.
"—If you have any questions, now would be the moment. If you intend to tell me that you do not need protection, I will spare you the effort: I have already been warned."
He looked at her again, a shadow of irony in his eyes. Then he pulled the second chair out from the wall and set it where she could see the door.
"—Sit, Your Highness. We will begin with what you are permitted to do in this court."