The great hall buzzed with murmurs as the newcomers were presented, but Aemon barely spared them a glance until he saw her.

She stood at the edge of the crowd, poised yet uncertain, her hands clasped before her. Her gown was modest compared to the ladies of court, but she wore it with quiet dignity. When her eyes met his, a flicker of something unreadable crossed her face.

“You are new to court,” Aemon observed, stepping toward her. His voice was gentle, but his presence was not.

She lowered her gaze briefly before meeting his again. “I am, my prince.”

He tilted his head, studying her. “Then allow me to offer you a word of advice.”

She swallowed. “Yes, my prince?”

His lips curved, not quite a smile. “Tread carefully. The dragons here are not all fire and wing—but they are just as dangerous.”