“Your Highness!” she says, rising gracefully as I approach. “I’m so honored you decided to join us. I’ve prepared the most wonderful meal: roasted lamb with herbs from our private gardens, fresh bread, and a honey cake that I’m told is simply divine.”

I take the seat beside her that has clearly been arranged for me.

What immediately strikes me is her resilience. After my brutal rejection at the guest quarters earlier, she has bounced back with renewed determination. Her smile is brighter, her posture more confident, and there’s a calculating gleam in her eyes that wasn’t there before. The persistent optimism reminds me painfully of Lady Zari and her...