Prince Edward paced restlessly along one of the stone corridors of the courthouse, while a handful of ministers lingered nearby, hoping to catch his favour.
"I believe it would be more comfortable to wait inside, Your Highness. It has been four hours since we have been standing here," Hermes said cautiously while subtly ushering the curious ministers farther down the hall.
"No." Edward's mouth twisted with irritation. His foot tapped twice against the floor before he paused. "It has been thirty hours since last evening. Maybe we should post a notice declaring him missing? A bounty might encourage him to appear."
Hermes blinked. "I hear the minister has been occupied with urgent matters of state."
Edward snorted in response.
From the far end of the courtyard, Minister Maverick Griswold stepped down from his carriage and began making his way toward his office. Since yesterday, he had been trying to find the young woman who had attempted to deceive him.
